commodity

[ kuh-mod-i-tee ]

noun

, plural com·mod·i·ties.

1. an article of trade or commerce, especially a product as distinguished from a service.
2. something of use, advantage, or value.
3. Stock Exchange. any unprocessed or partially processed good, as grain, fruits, and vegetables, or precious metals.
4. Obsolete. a quantity of goods.

commodity

/ kəˈmɒdɪtɪ /

noun

1. an article of commerce
2. something of use, advantage, or profit
3. economics an exchangeable unit of economic wealth, esp a primary product or raw material
4. obsolete.
   1. a quantity of goods
   2. convenience or expediency

commodity

1. Any product manufactured or grown.

Other Words From

• noncom·modi·ty adjective noun plural noncommodities

Word History and Origins

Origin of commodity¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English commodite, from Anglo-French, from Latin commoditās “timeliness, convenience,” equivalent to commod(us) ( commode ) + -itās -ity

Word History and Origins

Origin of commodity¹

C14: from Old French commodité, from Latin commoditās suitability, benefit; see commodious

Example Sentences

Canada’s role in supplying the commodity is made more urgent by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, particularly for the US, which had relied heavily on Russian-supplied enriched uranium to fire up its commercial nuclear reactors.

From BBC

But investors argue that there is a true global burgeoning demand for the commodity that poses a golden opportunity for Canada.

From BBC

Pistachios are currently California’s “sixth-biggest agricultural commodity in value” compared to other longtime crops grown in the state, like strawberries and tomatoes, per agriculture statistics.

From Salon

A week later, Hernández is back on the free-agent market, where he will be a more coveted commodity than last winter following his resurgent 2024 performance.

From Los Angeles Times

Attorneys with experience in election issues have become a very hot commodity in TV newsrooms.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• asset
• goods
• material
• produce
• product
• property
• stock