bullion

noun

bul·​lion ˈbu̇l-yən How to pronounce bullion (audio) -ˌyän How to pronounce bullion (audio)
1
a
: gold or silver considered as so much metal
the bullion contained in a silver dollar
specifically : uncoined gold or silver in bars or ingots
over a million dollars in gold bullion
b
: metal in the mass
lead bullion
2
clothing : lace, braid, or fringe of gold or silver threads
the bullion on his uniform

Examples of bullion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Now, with persistent geopolitical tensions, along with inflation and trade concerns, bullion could soon reach $3,000 for the first time. Sarah Min, CNBC, 27 Feb. 2025 The proposal would also remove capital gains taxes from transactions of gold and silver, or bullion, allowing residents to reduce their taxable income. Ian Max Stevenson, Idaho Statesman, 23 Jan. 2025 Revenue of the company, however, grew by 84% year-over-year to $4.6 billion, due to surging bullion prices coupled with higher gold volumes following the acquisition of Newcrest. Trefis Team, Forbes, 16 Jan. 2025 Add the marinated red cabbage, applesauce, and bullion cubes. Kathryn Gregory, The Courier-Journal, 20 Nov. 2024 See All Example Sentences for bullion

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French billion, bullion melting house, bullion, probably blend of Middle French bille ingot, piece of money (from Old French, log) and Anglo-French *bulliun, buillun cauldron, from Old French boillon froth on boiling liquid, broth — more at billet, bouillon

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of bullion was in the 14th century

Cite this Entry

“Bullion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bullion. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

bullion

noun
bul·​lion ˈbu̇l-yən How to pronounce bullion (audio)
: gold or silver especially in bars or blocks

More from Merriam-Webster on bullion

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