Search Dictionary
Definition of tenpence

tenpence

/ˈtɛn.pəns/
ten · pence
Plural:tenpences
•
Adjective:tenpenny
JUMP TO:

tenpence Lexical Profile

tenpence Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

British A monetary sum or value of ten pence in British or Irish currency.

Example

"The price of the local newspaper increased by tenpence over the weekend."

2

British A British coin worth ten pence, equal to one-tenth of a pound sterling.

Example

"She searched the bottom of her handbag for a shiny tenpence to put into the parking meter."

Word Nuance & Usage

When referring to a monetary value or a single coin, the plural of 'tenpence' is often unchanged (e.g., 'two tenpence'), whereas 'tenpences' is used when referring to multiple physical 10p coins.

• Nearby Words

tennessee
tennis
tenor
tenpence
tenpin
tenpins
tenpounder

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English as a compound of 'ten' and 'pence' (the collective plural of 'penny'), originally equivalent to five-sixths of a pre-decimal shilling.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Tenpence. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/tenpence
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.