fungible

Definition

Able to be substituted for something of equal value or utility.

Etymology

1765 as noun, 1818 as adjective, from Medieval Latin fungibilis, from Latin fungor (“to perform, discharge a duty”) + -ible (“able to”). Originally a legal term, going back to Roman law: res fungibiles (“replaceable things”).

Example Sentences

• "."
• "Take away this fungible instrument from the service of our necessities and how shall we exercise our Charity, which is a branch of Religion and Justice, as well as of Humanity?"
• "Gold is fungible. Silver is fungible; that is, these metals are both so homogeneous that, if I get a pound of pure gold, for example, it is indifferent to me whether it be this pound or that pound, one is as good as another"