Meaning & Definition of word "Loan"

Loan

/loʊn/

noun:

  • 1. A sum of money that is borrowed and is expected to be paid back with interest.
    • Example: She took out a loan to finance her education.
  • 2. An arrangement in which a borrower receives something of value from a lender with the obligation to return it or its equivalent.
    • Example: The library allows you to take a loan of books for up to three weeks.

verb:

  • 1. To allow someone to borrow something.
    • Example: Can you loan me your pen for a moment?
  • 2. To give someone a loan, especially in the context of money.
    • Example: The bank is willing to loan her the money to buy a house.

Etymology

From Old English 'lǣnan', meaning 'to lend'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

student loan:

A sum of money borrowed to pay for education, usually requiring repayment after graduation.

personal loan:

An unsecured loan that can be used for various personal expenses.

loan shark:

A person who lends money at extremely high-interest rates.

Related Words

borrow:

To take and use (money) from someone with the intention of returning it.

lend:

To give (money) on the agreement that it will be returned with interest.

creditor:

A person or institution to whom money is owed.

Slang Meanings of loan

Meaning: Loan shark

Example Sentence: He's been avoiding that loan shark since he defaulted on the payment.

Meaning: Pre-approved loan

Example Sentence: I got a letter saying I have a pre-approved loan just waiting for me!