English Reference

Word

banking

Phoneticsbank·ing, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈbæŋkɪŋ/

UK/bˈæŋkɪŋ/

Definitions

01the financial industry

B1 · Intermediate Uncountable noun

n. the business of keeping, lending, and managing money in banks.

n. the business activity of banks and other financial institutions, including the provision of credit and the management of deposits.

“She decided to pursue a career in banking after finishing her degree.”

“The global banking sector faced significant regulatory changes following the financial crisis to ensure greater stability in the markets.”

Synonyms

financefinancial services

02investment services

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun

n. the work of helping large companies and governments raise money.

n. a specific branch of the financial industry focused on capital raising, mergers, and acquisitions for corporations and governments.

“He works in investment banking and spends most of his time in London.”

“The firm's banking division reported record profits due to a surge in corporate mergers during the final quarter.”

Synonyms

investment banking

03tilting during a turn

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Science Technical

n. the way a plane or vehicle tilts to one side when it turns.

n. the lateral tilting of an aircraft or vehicle during a turn to counteract centrifugal force.

“The pilot adjusted the banking of the plane to make a smooth turn.”

“Proper banking is essential in high-speed railway design to ensure passenger comfort and maintain structural integrity during sharp curves.”

Synonyms

Word family

NOUN

Domains

AviationFinance

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
Frequency
Common
Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference