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Synonyms

borrowing

American  
[bor-oh-ing, bawr-] / ˈbɒr oʊ ɪŋ, ˈbɔr- /

noun

  1. the act of one who borrows.

  2. the process by which something, as a word or custom, is adopted or absorbed.

  3. the result of such a process; something borrowed, as a foreign word or phrase or a custom.


Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

Etymology

Origin of borrowing

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; see origin at borrow, -ing 1

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That creates a divided economy: Consumers struggle with higher prices and borrowing costs, but AI-related investment supports markets, infrastructure spending and business optimism.

From Salon • Jun. 1, 2026

The carousel of leaders has taken its toll, driving up borrowing costs and dragging down investment.

From Barron's • May 29, 2026

Matt Schulz: There are cases where borrowing from a parent makes all the sense in the world.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026

Most Americans couldn’t cover an emergency expense of $1,000 without borrowing money.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

Papá said that borrowing money was like being enslaved.

From "Breaking Through" by Francisco Jiménez

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