devise

currency

noun duh-VEEZ Rare

Origin: Old French 'deviser' (to divide, arrange)

Also means

motto

Usage Note

Devise has two distinct meanings: foreign currency (les devises étrangères = foreign currencies, a term used in banking) and a motto or slogan (la devise de la France = France's motto, 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité'). Context makes the meaning clear. Do not confuse with dévisager (to stare at someone) or devis (m, a cost estimate/quote).

Examples

"La devise de la France est connue dans le monde."

Natural Translation

France's motto is known around the world.

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