pelf

[ pelf ]

noun

1. money or wealth, especially when regarded with contempt or acquired by reprehensible means.

pelf

/ pɛlf /

noun

1. derogatory.
   money or wealth, esp if dishonestly acquired; lucre

Word History and Origins

Origin of pelf¹

1300–50; Middle English < Old French pelfre booty

Word History and Origins

Origin of pelf¹

C14: from Old French pelfre booty; related to Latin pilāre to despoil

Example Sentences

China is a student's paradise where the possession of learning is instantly convertible into unlimited pelf.

From Project Gutenberg

Fear prompts him to ask, and Greed—greed for power, place and pelf—answers.

From Project Gutenberg

The pelf and trinkets that she had upon her Were not demanded.D.

From Project Gutenberg

The ruling passion of the age: worship of self and worship of pelf.

From Project Gutenberg

We know how many men give up their mental independence for the sake of pelf and power.

From Project Gutenberg