Pronunciation: [vˈɑːtuː] (IPA) 
Vatu is the currency of the island nation of Vanuatu, located in the South Pacific Ocean. The word is spelled as /ˈvɑːtuː/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress on the first syllable. The "v" sound is followed by an "a" sound that is similar to the "a" in "father." The following "t" sound is pronounced with a strong puff of air, as in "top." The final "u" sound is elongated and similar to the "oo" in "boot."
The term "vatu" refers to the unit of currency used in the Republic of Vanuatu, a small island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. The vatu is the official currency of Vanuatu and is represented by the symbol "VT". It was introduced in 1982 to replace the New Hebrides franc, the previous currency used in the country.
As a noun, "vatu" refers specifically to a monetary unit equivalent to one hundred centimes. The currency is issued and regulated by the Reserve Bank of Vanuatu, which ensures that the vatu remains stable and reliable for economic transactions within the nation. The vatu is available in different denominations, including coins and banknotes, ranging from as low as 1 vatu to as high as 10,000 vatu.
Furthermore, "vatu" is not only limited to its currency meaning but also has a geological definition. In geology, vatu refers to a type of volcanic rock commonly found in Vanuatu and other volcanic regions. This rock is typically composed of volcanic ash, lava fragments, and pyroclastic materials. As a result, it often has a porous and rough texture, making it suitable for certain construction purposes and as a decorative material.
Overall, "vatu" has significance as both a financial unit and a geological term closely associated with the Republic of Vanuatu, underscoring its importance within the country's economic and geographic context.
The word "vatu" derives from the Bislama language, which is one of the official languages of Vanuatu. Bislama is a Creole language that developed from a combination of English, French, and various Indigenous languages spoken in Vanuatu. The term "vatu" specifically comes from the English word "pound", referring to a unit of currency. In Bislama, "vatu" is used to represent the currency of Vanuatu, the vatu (VT).
