# devalue

/dɪˈvæɫˌju/ (US) · /diːvˈæljuː/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/devalue
Updated: 2026-10-15

## Definition

to make something worth less, in money or in importance. You use it when a government lowers its currency value, or when actions make people's work feel less respected.

For teachers: to lower the value, importance, or official exchange rate of something. Covers both formal currency action by a government and a general loss of worth or respect.

## Examples

- They devalue old phones when new models arrive.
- The company feared that constant discounts would devalue its luxury brand in the eyes of customers.
- When governments devalue their currency to boost exports, the short-term trade advantage often comes at the cost of higher import prices and eroded public confidence.

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and takes a direct object.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.