BusinessJuly 14, 2026

greenback

/ˈɡriːn.bæk/

Definition

A slang term for the United States dollar or US paper currency.

Etymology

The term originated during the American Civil War in the 1860s to describe the new demand notes issued by the federal government, which were printed with green ink on the reverse side. The name 'greenback' subsequently became the standard colloquial way to refer to all US paper money.

In the news

In this article, the term is used interchangeably with the 'dollar index' to describe the rising value of US currency amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. It highlights the dollar's role as a financial instrument being influenced by global uncertainty.

Dollar index seen supported around 101 mark

Read the full article ↗

Business Standard

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