Meaning
In British English, a cashpoint is a cash machine or ATM used to withdraw money from a bank account with a card.
How it is used
Cambridge Dictionary labels cashpoint as UK English and defines it as a cash machine, while its ATM entry notes that British English usually uses cash machine or cashpoint. Collins independently defines cashpoint as the British term for a machine that lets people withdraw money using a bank card.
Examples
- “Is there a cashpoint near the station?”
- “I need to stop at a cashpoint before we go in.”
- “That cashpoint isn't working, so let's try the one across the road.”
Pronunciation
/ˈkæʃ.pɔɪnt/ · CASH-point
Tone and register
Neutral and practical in British English. Cashpoint is common everyday vocabulary, not slang.
Visitor guidance
Visitors can understand cashpoint as ATM or cash machine. The term tells you what kind of machine is being discussed, not whether a particular machine is free to use, accepts a certain card, supports deposits, or is safe and operational. Fees, card compatibility, withdrawal limits, exchange-rate choices, and availability are live banking matters that should be checked separately.
Cultural context
Cashpoint is valuable visitor vocabulary because directions such as nearest cashpoint can sound unfamiliar to speakers who expect ATM. British English also uses cash machine, and ATM is widely recognized, so Maperla presents cashpoint as a regional lexical preference rather than an exclusive British term.
Places represented
Open the reviewed place guide for each regional sense carried by this canonical entry.