pecuniary
UK: /pɪˈkjuː.ni.ə.ri/ | US: /pɪˈkjuː.ni.er.i/
adj. relating to or consisting of money
adj. involving a financial penalty or reward
The word traces back to Latin pecunia, rooted in pecu (cattle), as livestock symbolized wealth in ancient agrarian societies. Over time, pecunia evolved to denote money broadly, and the suffix -ary was added in English to form the adjective. The connection between cattle and money persists in linguistic history, mirroring economic evolution.
The court imposed a pecuniary fine for the violation.
She faced pecuniary difficulties after losing her job.
The contract included both pecuniary and non-pecuniary benefits.
His research focused on pecuniary incentives in workplace productivity.
The law emphasizes pecuniary compensation for damages.