pawn
4 synonyms and 0 antonyms for pawn, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To leave an item with a pawnbroker as security in exchange for money.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use pawn
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French pan ("pledge for payment"), likely from a Germanic word for "deposit" or "security."
Full origin of pawn →Frequently asked questions
What does “pawn” mean?
The word “pawn” means to leave an item with a pawnbroker as security in exchange for money. In plain terms, to trade an item for cash as security on a loan; or, in chess, the weakest piece; or, figuratively, someone being used by others.
How do you pronounce “pawn”?
“Pawn” is pronounced PAWN (/ˈpɔn/ in IPA).
How do you use “pawn” in a sentence?
Here is “pawn” used in a sentence: “He pawned his watch to cover the rent.”
What part of speech is “pawn”?
Depending on how it is used, “pawn” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “pawn” come from?
The word “pawn” comes from Old French. From Old French pan ("pledge for payment"), likely from a Germanic word for "deposit" or "security.".
Is “pawn” a common word?
“Pawn” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “pawn” have?
“Pawn” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to leave an item with a pawnbroker as security in exchange for money.