What does valuta mean?
Valuta is a formal term for the monetary or exchange value of a currency, particularly when that value is expressed relative to another currency. In international finance and business, it can refer to the rate at which one currency is converted into another, and the word may also be used more broadly for foreign currency or money considered from the perspective of its exchange value. Its uses are largely technical, so in ordinary conversation people are more likely to say exchange rate, currency, or money. Valuta also has a specifically national meaning: it is the official currency of Montenegro, where it is used alongside the euro. The word is therefore useful both for understanding formal discussions of international payments and for recognizing the name of a modern European currency. Its connection with Latin valere, meaning to be strong or to be worth, also links it to a wider family of English words such as value, valid, and valor.
nounThe monetary value or exchange value of a currency, especially when expressed in relation to another currency. In Montenegro, valuta also refers to the country’s official currency, which is used alongside the euro.
- The monetary or exchange value of a currency, especially relative to another currency.
- The official currency of Montenegro, used alongside the euro.
"The bank quoted the valuta of the dollar against the pound before the transaction was completed."
"Companies that trade internationally must account for changes in the valuta of foreign currencies."
"The valuta is the official currency of Montenegro and circulates alongside the euro."
The plural is rare in modern English and is more likely to occur in financial or historical contexts.
"The report compares the valutas of several European currencies."
A word for a currency’s exchange value has become the name of Montenegro’s own currency: the valuta, used alongside the euro.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of valuta
Valuta comes through New Latin from Latin valūta, the feminine form of the past participle of valēre, “to be strong” or “to be worth.” Its English use developed in the language of money and exchange before it became the name of Montenegro’s currency. Related English words, including value, valid, and valor, come from the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How valuta is actually used
In general English, valuta is a formal or technical term associated with currency valuation and international finance. It can sound dated or specialized outside those contexts. In Montenegro, it is the ordinary name of the national currency, while the euro also circulates.
Easily confused with valuta
Valuta usually refers specifically to a currency’s monetary or exchange value, whereas value is the broader idea of worth or importance.