Meaning & Definition of word "Pawn"
Pawn
/pɔːn/
noun:
- 1. A chess piece of the smallest size, which can only move forward one square at a time, except on its first move when it may move two squares.
- Example: He moved his pawn two spaces forward to control the center of the board.
- 2. A person used by others for their own purposes; a dupe.
- Example: In the political game, he felt like a pawn, manipulated by those in power.
- 3. An item of personal property that is deposited as security for a loan.
- Example: She decided to pawn her grandmother's ring to get quick cash.
verb:
- 1. To deposit an item as security for a loan.
- Example: He had to pawn his guitar to pay rent this month.
Etymology
●Middle English 'paun', from Old French 'pond', from Latin 'pawnus', denoting a foot soldier.
Common Phrases and Expressions
pawn in the game:
Someone who is being used by others for their own purposes.
pawn shop:
A shop where items are sold or accepted as security for loans.
Related Words
chess:
A strategic board game that employs pawns.
pawnshop:
A store where pawns are accepted as collateral for loans.
Slang Meanings of pawn
Meaning: A person who is easily manipulated.
● Example Sentence: He’s just a pawn in their corporate games.
Meaning: Something of no real importance.
● Example Sentence: This project is a pawn in the larger agenda.