yen

UK: jɛn | US: jɛn

Definition

  1. n. a strong desire or craving

  2. n. the basic monetary unit of Japan

Structure

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Etymology

The word "yen" has two distinct origins. For the meaning "craving," it traces back to Chinese 癮 (yǐn), entering English via 19th-century opium dens where "yen-yen" described drug cravings. For the currency, it comes from Japanese 円 (yen), symbolizing the round shape of coins. The dual etymology reflects unrelated linguistic paths converging in English.

Examples

  1. She had a sudden yen for chocolate after dinner.

  2. Investors are closely watching the yen's exchange rate.

  3. His yen for adventure led him to travel the world.

  4. The yen weakened against the dollar this week.

  5. I’ve got a yen to revisit Kyoto someday.