queen's shilling

noun

: a shilling whose acceptance by a recruit from a recruiting officer constituted until 1879 a binding enlistment in the British army

—used when the British monarch is a queen

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now