Meaning of King's shilling | Babel Free

Definitions

1. A shilling accepted by new recruits when agreeing to or tricked into enlisting into the British army or navy during the 18th and 19th centuries.
   British, historical
2. The benefits and rewards of military service.
   figuratively

Examples

“I have taken the King's shilling, but perhaps if you came for me they would let me go back with you. I was a fool when I did it. I don't want to be in the army.”

CEFR level