English Reference
noun · verb

cashier

n. · v.
US /kæˈʃɪɹ/ UK /kæʃˈiə/ cashier UK spelling cashier's, cashier's, cashiered

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    n.a person in a shop or restaurant who takes your money and gives you change.

    n.an employee who handles payments and receipts in a retail establishment or restaurant.

    Simple

    The cashier scanned my groceries and told me the total price.

    In context

    The supermarket is hiring a part-time cashier to manage the express lanes during the busy weekend shifts.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    n.a person in a bank who is in charge of the money.

    n.an officer of a bank or business who is responsible for the custody of funds and the oversight of financial transactions.

    Simple

    The bank cashier helped her deposit the cheque into her savings account.

    In context

    The chief cashier is responsible for reconciling the daily accounts and ensuring all physical currency is secured in the vault.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced FormalArchaic

    v.to officially remove someone from their job, especially in the military.

    v.to dismiss someone from a position of authority or service, particularly with dishonour or as a formal disciplinary measure.

    Simple

    The officer was cashiered after he was caught lying to his superiors.

    In context

    The court-martial decided to cashier the captain, stripping him of his rank and benefits following the investigation into the missing supplies.

    Usage

    This verb is almost always used in the passive voice in modern contexts.

    Teacher's tip

    In modern English, this verb sense is rare outside of historical novels or military contexts; 'dismiss' or 'fire' are the standard choices.


Etymology 1

From Dutch casseren, kasseren, from Old French casser (“to break (up)”). During a ceremonial cashiering of a ranking military officer, the breakup was often symbolized dramatically by literally breaking the officer’s sword.

Etymology 2

Borrowed from Dutch cassier or French caissier, from French caisse.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Old French casser
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Frequent
Updated