pawn
verb (used with object)
to deposit as security, as for money borrowed, especially with a pawnbroker.
pawned
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past participleof pawn.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
-
past tense formof pawn.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
pawnverb (used with object)to deposit as security, as for money borrowed, especially with a pawnbroker.
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 has noted that he is difficult to manage, so I figured she just pawned him off on me now that the company has scaled up.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 10, 2026
She could have pawned or sold things but certain things she kept for herself.
From BBC ● Jul. 11, 2026
It was named for Barney Pressman, who in 1923 pawned his wife’s ring, at her encouragement, for $500 to buy the lease of a small store on Seventh Avenue and 17th Street in Manhattan.
From New York Times ● Apr. 22, 2024
Migrants pawned their jewelry to pay for passage or brought their treasure to new lands.
From National Geographic ● Jan. 11, 2024
The following day they pawned some of Granny’s meager belongings.
From "Kaffir Boy: An Autobiography" by Mark Mathabane
