Definition of the word shilling

The word "shilling" has its origins in the medieval English language, where it was used to describe a silver coin that was equivalent to twelve pence. The term "shilling" comes from the Old English word "seolan," which meant "silo" or "kiln" and was later used as a measure to describe a solid ingot of silver. However, in the 13th century, merchants began to mint small silver coins shaped like the Latin cross, which became known as "shillings" due to their relation to the silver weight known as a "shoell" or "scilling." This new coin was widely accepted throughout England and was even used as a standard measure for small weights and prices. Over time, the value of the shilling fluctuated with changes in British currency, and it was eventually replaced by decimal currency in 1971. Nonetheless, the term "shilling" has continued to live on in various modern expressions, including the phrase "half a shilling past six" to describe being a few minutes late.