banks
n. countable A1 Beginner US //ˈbæŋks// UK //bˈæŋks// banks
n. a place where you keep your money safe or borrow money when you need it. You can also use their machines to take out cash.
n. a financial institution licensed to receive deposits and make loans. Often used in the plural to refer to the banking industry as a whole.
I need to go to the bank to open a new account.
Most major banks now offer mobile apps so customers can manage their money without visiting a branch.
Central banks often adjust interest rates to control inflation and maintain the stability of the national currency during periods of economic volatility.
Usage
When referring to the institution, it is a countable noun; when referring to the industry, the plural 'banks' is common.