obol

[ ob-uhl ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

Origin of obol¹

First recorded in 1660–70; obolus

Then they were called obol, a word of obscure etymology, or inia, which signifies sticking up or standing erect.

The obol referred to is the small coin placed between the lips of the dead to pay the toll to the ferryman of Hades.

Thy aim was lettuces; they are worth an obol, they are not worth a talent.

Six years ago to-day it was I came to Rome, with barely an obol of ready money, to make my fortune by my wits.

Shall the favourite of the gods—shall the guest of Hypatia—earn his breakfast, while I have an obol to share with him?

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