# exchequer

/ˈɛksˌtʃɛkɝ/ (US) · /ɛkstʃˈɛkɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/exchequer
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

the government department in charge of public money, especially in the UK. It is the place where taxes are collected and government spending is managed.

For teachers: the national treasury or the government department responsible for the management and collection of public revenue. Often used metonymically to refer to the financial resources of a state or organization.

## Examples

- The Chancellor of the Exchequer announced new tax cuts today.
- The proposed infrastructure project will require a significant investment from the national exchequer over the next decade.
- Economists warned that the sudden drop in oil prices would leave a substantial hole in the exchequer, forcing the government to reconsider its planned social spending.

## Usage notes

- When referring to the British government department, it is almost always capitalized as 'the Exchequer'.

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