bullion

noun

bul·​lion ˈbu̇l-yən  -ˌyän 

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

Old Republic Credits – The kids are using Old Republic credits that are clearly way more valuable than present day currency, like trying to pay with gold bullion coins for something that costs quarters. —Paul Tassi, Forbes, 3 Dec. 2024

The Trust's investment in gold bullion increased in value from $791,131,000 to $879,231,000, with the number of ounces held decreasing from 339,410.178 to 334,314.713. —Quartz Bot, Quartz, 8 Nov. 2024

In 2024, bullion advanced jumped 28%, outpacing the S & P 500′s 23% gain. —Brian Evans, CNBC, 13 Jan. 2025

This represented a 26% year-on-year increase and was driven by a soaring bullion price. —Royston Wild, Forbes, 8 Jan. 2025

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

Kids Definition

bullion

noun

bul·​lion ˈbu̇l-yən 

: gold or silver especially in bars or blocks