NOTE to parents, teachers, and educators of every kind:
Use this definition as a simple, kid-friendly teaching tool. Click this link to view the full index of current money terms and definitions, and learn how to use the Sammy Rabbit dictionary to support teaching and learning.
Word and Category
Word: Buy
Related Definition: Spend
Category: Action Word
What this category means:
Action words describe things people do with money. They help children understand actions like earning, saving, spending, and buying.
Definitions
In Simple Words
Buy means to get something by paying money for it. When you buy something, you spend money to get it.
When you buy something, you give money to receive a good or service.
A Little More Grown-Up
To buy means to exchange money for goods or services. Buying is one of the main ways people use money.
Context Clues
You may see the word “buy” in Sammy Rabbit stories and activities when kids are shopping, making choices, or deciding how to spend their money.
Sammy Says Sentences
Sammy Says: “When you buy something, you’re making a money choice!”
Silly Sentence
I tried to buy a rainbow, but it said it only comes after the rain.
Serious Sentence
Buying something means using money to get what you want or need.
Rhyming Sentences
Silly Rhyming Sentence:
I went to buy a treat so sweet, then waved goodbye to coins I’d meet!
Serious Rhyming Sentence:
When I choose what things to buy, I help my money last nearby.
Money Habit Sentences and Connection
Money Habit Sentences:
Buying things without a plan can lead to a bad spending habit. Buying things with a plan can lead to a good money habit.
Share with kids:
Learning what it means to buy helps kids understand that every purchase is a choice.
Examples of Buy
Buying a snack at a store
Buying a toy with saved money
Buying a book or school supplies
Paying money to get a service
Examples of What Is Not Buy
Getting a gift
Borrowing something
Finding something for free
Related Money Words
Spend • Money • Price • Cost • Purchase
Opposite Money Words
Sell • Free
Questions for Kids
Ask your child or student: “What is something you want to buy, and why?”
Remember
Buying is a choice, and how you buy helps shape your money habits.
Get the Entire Dictionary in One PDF
Want a FREE printable PDF of the complete Sammy Rabbit Kid-Friendly Money Dictionary? Contact us to learn how to get a copy for your home, classroom, or community.
Keep Kids and Families Learning
Kids, families, and schools of every kind can enroll in Sammy Rabbit’s Money School with a FREE, PREMIUM or Group Discount Money School Memberships, giving learners access to engaging, age-appropriate financial education resources.
Parents, teachers, and community leaders are invited to explore the resources and teaching tips available on SammyRabbit.com, starting with award-winning financial educator Sam X Renick’s article series, Money Lessons Parents Should Teach Kids!
Schools, community organizations, employers, and partners can learn more about Sammy's Dream Big Financial Education curriculum, a flexible, standards-aligned approach designed to help children build strong money habits, confidence, and lifelong skills.
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