Word: Lend

Pronunciation

/lend/

Definitions

• Verb: To give (something) temporarily to someone else with the expectation that it will be returned. For example: “She lent me her car while mine was in the shop.”
  • In financial contexts, to grant (money) to someone on condition that it is paid back over time, usually with interest. For example: “The bank lent him the money to buy a house.”
• Noun: (archaic or literary) The act of lending; loan. For example: “The library’s policy on the lend of books has changed.”

Phrases

• “Lend a hand” means to help someone, typically by physically assisting them with a task. Example: “Could you lend a hand moving this furniture?”
• “Lend an ear” means to listen attentively to someone. Example: “Please lend an ear while I explain my concerns.”
• “Lend itself to something” means to be suitable or adaptable for a particular purpose. Example: “This space lends itself well to hosting intimate gatherings.”

Example Sentences

• Verb: “I’m happy to lend you my laptop if you need it for the presentation.”
  • Financial context: “They lent considerable funds to the startup, enabling its expansion.”
• Noun: “The library has a long history of generous lends to students and researchers.”

Synonyms

• Loan (as a verb)
• Borrow (as the opposite action)
• Give temporarily
• Let someone borrow
• Advance (in financial contexts)