shekel: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Neutral (for currency); Informal/Slang (for money in general)
Quick answer
What does “shekel” mean?
The basic unit of currency in Israel.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The basic unit of currency in Israel.
Informally refers to money in general; historically refers to an ancient unit of weight used in Mesopotamia and the Middle East.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No major difference in meaning. The term is known in both varieties due to international news.
Connotations
In both, the informal use carries a casual, slightly humorous tone.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both dialects. Slightly higher awareness in the UK due to stronger historical and travel connections to the region.
Grammar
How to Use “shekel” in a Sentence
N (countable): He paid fifty shekels.N (uncountable, informal): He's always trying to save a few shekels.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “shekel” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- Shekel-denominated bonds are traded.
- The shekel economy is robust.
American English
- Shekel-based transactions are common.
- A shekel-dominated market.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in international finance and travel reports: 'The shekel strengthened against the dollar.'
Academic
Used in historical, economic, or theological contexts discussing ancient economies.
Everyday
Used by travelers to Israel or in humorous references to small change: 'I'm saving my shekels for a holiday.'
Technical
Used in foreign exchange (FX) trading under the code ILS.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “shekel”
- Using 'shekels' as a singular noun (e.g., 'one shekels').
- Misspelling as 'sheckel' or 'sheckle'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Primarily yes, as the modern currency. It also refers to an ancient unit of weight and can be informal slang for money.
The standard plural is 'shekels'. The Hebrew plural 'shekalim' is sometimes used in very specific historical or religious contexts.
Generally no, it's seen as light-hearted. However, in contexts relating to Jewish people or history, it's best to use the term neutrally to avoid any unintended stereotypes.
The 'new shekel' (NIS) replaced the old shekel in 1985 due to hyperinflation. One new shekel was worth 1000 old shekels. Today, 'shekel' almost always means the new shekel.
The basic unit of currency in Israel.
Shekel: in British English it is pronounced /ˈʃɛk(ə)l/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈʃɛkəl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Not a red cent/shekel to his name (rare, humorous variant).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a SHELF (sounds like 'shel' in shekel) in a shop in Israel where prices are marked in SHEKELS.
Conceptual Metaphor
MONEY IS A MEASURED WEIGHT (from its historical origin as a weight of silver).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary, non-slang meaning of 'shekel'?