Handbanker

/ˈhændbæŋkər/ noun

Definition

A historical term for a banker or money-lender who conducted business on a small scale, often in person, rather than through a large established institution.

Etymology

Compound word from 'hand' and 'banker,' referring to an individual who handled banking transactions personally, often working at a hand-operated or small-scale establishment.

Kelly Says

Medieval handbankers were basically the Venmo of their time—individuals with connections and capital who'd lend money or exchange currencies in person at a table in the marketplace, and over time these personal operations became the banks we know today!

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