barter
This term describes a direct exchange of value that bypasses currency. It carries a connotation of necessity, tradition, or informal negotiation, often evoking images of ancient marketplaces or survivalist economies where tangible assets are the only available currency.
As a noun, the word refers to the systemic practice of trading. While it can be used as a countable noun in specific instances of a trade, it is most frequently used as an uncountable noun to describe the general economic system of exchange.
Meanings
To exchange goods or services for other goods or services without using money.
He bartered his old watch for a rare book.
Phrasal Verbs
barter away
to trade away a valuable possession, often implying a loss or a regrettable exchange
She bartered away her family heirlooms just to survive the winter.
barter back
to trade something back to the original owner or to negotiate a return of an item
After realizing the tool was broken, he tried to barter it back for his original coins.