pawn
verb (used with object)
to deposit as security, as for money borrowed, especially with a pawnbroker.
pawning
-
present participleof pawn.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
Deloitte’s figures include margin lending, where the aim typically is to accumulate investments with less money down, rather than pawning out assets for cash to buy other things.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 27, 2026
She’s hoping to avoid pawning something or paying a bill late.
From Slate ● Apr. 19, 2026
Geoffrey Simmons began pawning his items six years ago "just to fill the freezer".
From BBC ● Oct. 9, 2023
And she owned up to pawning eight of his silver coins in 2017 without his knowledge, according to the police reports.
From Seattle Times ● Nov. 2, 2021
“Of course, he denies having anything besides what he took to the pawnshop. He claims the jewelry belonged to his grandmother. ‘Nothing wrong with pawning what’s mine,’ he said.
From "Beyond the Bright Sea" by Lauren Wolk
