£sd

English

Etymology

An abbreviation of the Latin lībra solidus dēnārius.

Noun

£sd (uncountable)

1. (British, historical after 1971) The pre-decimal pounds, shillings, pence.
2. (British) Money in general.
   • 1901, William Henley, Bus-driver:

     He reins his horses with an air; he treats
     With scoffing calm whatever powers there be;
     He gets it straight, puts a bit on, and meets
     His losses with both lip and £ s. d.

   • 1937, Dorothy L. Sayers, Busman's Honeymoon:

     She said, ‘Uncle’s dead and all the money’s gone!’ Then she had the jim-jams. Nothing like £ s. d. for going straight to the heart, is there?