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.

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• nonborrowing
  adjective
• unborrowing
  adjective
• preborrowing
  noun

Etymology

Origin of borrowing

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

Example Sentences

Improving their credit score is one of the few levers consumers have to lower their borrowing costs, especially as prices for cars and homes remain high.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 2, 2026

If markets believe inflation will stay elevated, borrowing costs can rise on their own.

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

The European Central Bank revealed some rate setters were prepared to raise borrowing costs at its April meeting.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

“I do want to be a teacher,” I said, “but my parents won’t like the idea of borrowing money.”

From "Breaking Through" by Francisco Jiménez

Related Words

• financing