Definition of the word groat

The word "groat" is an old English term used to describe a coin that once held significant value in medieval and early modern times. The origin of the word itself is a matter of debate, as its etymology is not entirely clear. Some linguistic historians believe that the word "groat" originated from the Old French term "groat," which meant "a lump" or "chunk," and was likely applied to the thick, heavy coin because of its large size. This theory is supported by the fact that the word "groat" appears in Old French texts as early as the 14th century. Others suggest that the word "groat" might be derived from the Gothic word "graviðus," meaning "heavy," which was used to describe the sturdy Nordic coins that preceded the English groats. Regardless of its exact origin, the term "groat" was commonly used to describe a variety of coins throughout history. In England, for example, a groat was originally a silver penny that weighed approximately four grams, or 0.14 ounces, and featured the image of Edward III on one side and a long cross on the other. As time passed and the value of silver declined, the term "groat" came to be associated with larger copper coins. In the mid-16th century, Queen Mary I issued a new coin called the "royal," which weighed roughly 27 grams, or 0.95 ounces, and was worth four pence. This coin became known as a groat, and the term continued to be applied to larger copper coins well into the 19th century. Today, the word "groat" is rarely used, as copper coins have been largely phased out in favor of paper currency and digital transactions. However, the word still holds a place in English etymology, serving as a curious reminder of the rich history of money and commerce.