A sawbuck is a slang term used in North America to refer to a $10 bill. The term originated from the fact that the Roman numeral X, which resembles a wooden sawbuck, was traditionally used on U.S. $10 banknotes to denote the number 10.
Key Facts
- Origin of the Term: The term “sawbuck” reflects the fact that the Roman numeral X, which resembles a wooden sawbuck, was traditionally used on U.S. $10 banknotes to denote the number 10.
- Recognition in North America: The term “sawbuck” is generally recognized as meaning $10 in North America.
Recognition in North America
The term “sawbuck” is generally recognized as meaning $10 in North America. A 2013 survey conducted by MetaFilter, a popular online community, found that a majority of respondents were familiar with the term and associated it with a $10 bill.
Conclusion
The term “sawbuck” is a colloquialism that is still used today, although its usage has declined in recent years. It is a reminder of the history of U.S. currency and the role that Roman numerals played in its design.
References
- Investopedia: Sawbuck
- MetaFilter: Is “sawbuck” generally recognized as $10 in North America? Elsewhere?
- Wikipedia: Slang terms for money
FAQs
What is the origin of the term “sawbuck”?
Answer: The term “sawbuck” originated from the fact that the Roman numeral X, which resembles a wooden sawbuck, was traditionally used on U.S. $10 banknotes to denote the number 10.
What does “sawbuck” mean?
Answer: Sawbuck is a slang term used in North America to refer to a $10 bill.
Is the term “sawbuck” still used today?
Answer: Yes, the term “sawbuck” is still used today, although its usage has declined in recent years.
How common is the term “sawbuck”?
Answer: A 2013 survey conducted by MetaFilter, a popular online community, found that a majority of respondents were familiar with the term and associated it with a $10 bill.
Where is the term “sawbuck” used?
Answer: The term “sawbuck” is primarily used in North America, including the United States and Canada.
Are there any other slang terms for $10?
Answer: Yes, other slang terms for $10 include “ten-spot,” “pony,” and “Hamilton” (after Alexander Hamilton, whose portrait is on the $10 bill).
What is the history of the $10 bill?
Answer: The first $10 bill was issued in 1861 by the U.S. Treasury. It featured a portrait of Salmon P. Chase, the sixth chief justice of the United States. The design of the $10 bill has changed several times over the years, but it has always featured a portrait of a prominent American figure.
What is the current design of the $10 bill?
Answer: The current design of the $10 bill was introduced in 2006. It features a portrait of Alexander Hamilton on the front and an image of the U.S. Treasury Building on the back.