Cash etymology

The word “cash” has a complex etymology with roots in several languages and cultures.

1. Latin Origin: The English word “cash” likely originates from the Latin word “capsa,” meaning “box” or “case.” This term evolved into the Old French word “casse,” which means “money box.”
2. Tamil and Portuguese Influence: Another significant source is the Tamil word “kaasu” (காசு), which means “coin.” During the period of Portuguese colonization in India, the Portuguese adopted this term as “caixa” for a box or chest used to store money, which then influenced the English term.
3. Chinese Influence: Additionally, the term “cash” was used by British merchants in the 18th and 19th centuries to refer to small copper coins used in China, known as “cash” (from the Chinese word “kāsi,” meaning “coin”).

These various influences combined to shape the modern English word “cash,” which generally refers to money in the form of coins or notes, or liquid assets readily available for use.