simoleon: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowInformal, Slang, Archaic/Humorous
Quick answer
What does “simoleon” mean?
A slang term for a dollar (monetary unit).
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A slang term for a dollar (monetary unit).
Used informally, often humorously or with an old-fashioned tone, to refer to a unit of currency, particularly US dollars. Can imply a sum of money in a casual or slightly irreverent way.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Overwhelmingly an American slang term. In British English, it is extremely rare and would be understood only as a conscious Americanism, likely in specific cultural contexts (e.g., discussing historical US slang or in imported media).
Connotations
In American English: Nostalgic, humorous, informal. In British English: Perceived as an obscure Americanism.
Frequency
Extremely rare in contemporary use in both dialects. Its appearance is almost always stylized.
Grammar
How to Use “simoleon” in a Sentence
[Subject] cost [Number] simoleons.[Subject] is worth [Number] simoleons.I've got [Number] simoleons.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “simoleon” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- In the old film, the cowboy bet fifty simoleons on the poker hand.
American English
- He wouldn't lend me a single simoleon for the parking meter.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Never used.
Academic
Only used in historical linguistics or cultural studies discussing slang.
Everyday
Virtually never used in genuine contemporary conversation. May appear in humorous writing, period pieces, or by someone affecting an old-fashioned persona.
Technical
Never used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “simoleon”
- Using it in formal writing.
- Assuming it is current, common slang.
- Using it to refer to non-US currency.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is a documented slang term for a US dollar, though it is now archaic and used primarily for humorous or stylistic effect.
It would sound very unusual and deliberately old-fashioned. It is not part of modern active vocabulary.
Its etymology is uncertain. It emerged in American slang around the early 1900s, possibly influenced by 'Napoleon' (a former French coin) or via simoniac/simony, but this is not definitive.
Yes, the standard plural is 'simoleons' (e.g., 'ten simoleons').
A slang term for a dollar (monetary unit).
Simoleon is usually informal, slang, archaic/humorous in register.
Simoleon: in British English it is pronounced /sɪˈməʊ.li.ən/, and in American English it is pronounced /sɪˈmoʊ.li.ən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Not another simoleon! (expressing refusal to pay more)”
- “to not have a simoleon to one's name (to be broke)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'SIMOn says pay a million' but it's just one 'simoleon' (a dollar).
Conceptual Metaphor
MONEY IS A PERSON/OBJECT (giving a colloquial name to a unit of currency).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would the word 'simoleon' be LEAST appropriate?