pawn
verb (used with object)
to deposit as security, as for money borrowed, especially with a pawnbroker.
have pawned
-
present perfectof pawn.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
She could have pawned or sold things but certain things she kept for herself.
From BBC ● Jul. 11, 2026
“I have pawned my jewelry to help keep our doors open,” she later told the Star.
From Washington Post ● Aug. 31, 2021
“Seeking a life, we have pawned our lives,” Ponna says.
From New York Times ● Oct. 16, 2018
Some of those who remain have pawned their gold, a traditional last resort, to cover their living expenses.
From New York Times ● May 2, 2016
In such a conflict it will be Germany, and not France, that will have pawned her strength to the English-speaking peoples on the high seas.
From Anticipations Of the Reaction of Mechanical and Scientific Progress upon Human life and Thought by H. G. (Herbert George) Wells
