verb
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to reduce (a currency) or (of a currency) be reduced in exchange value
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(tr) to reduce the value or worth of (something)
Etymology
Origin of devalue
Explanation
When you make something less valuable or less important, you devalue it. You might devalue your car by spray painting it black and letting your dog chew the upholstery. Economists and business reporters often use the verb devalue when they talk about the currency — or money — of different countries, and what it's worth in comparison to other currencies. Sometimes countries will devalue their currency, for example, to get more people to buy their exported products. But you can also devalue a relationship by neglecting it, or devalue a diamond ring by chipping it. Devaluation came before devalue, with a Latin root of valere, "be strong or be of value."
Vocabulary lists containing devalue
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
No one, especially not your second husband of three years, gets to devalue or judge your relationship with your kids.
From MarketWatch • Jan. 22, 2026
“As it currently stands, many of these platforms are commercializing IP in ways that undermine fan engagement efforts, devalue brands, and misuse names and likenesses,” Krauss said in a statement.
From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 4, 2025
Markets have long been concerned that China would devalue its currency in response to tariffs, says Brooks.
From Barron's • Oct. 11, 2025
In addition, Malawi has been forced to devalue its currency and was recently crippled by fuel shortages and nationwide power outages.
From BBC • Sep. 15, 2025
If pennies become worthless, does that devalue our thoughts to less than nothing?
From "Challenger Deep" by Neal Shusterman
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
