Definition

A sum of money that is borrowed and must be paid back with interest.

Example

I took out a loan to buy a new car.

Conversation

I need to ask you about that loan you took out last year.

Sure! What do you want to know about it?

Was it easy to get approved for the loan?

It was pretty straightforward, but I had to provide a lot of documents.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To give something, usually money, to someone with the expectation that it will be paid back later.

Example

The bank will loan you money to buy a house.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Hey, can you loan me your book for a while?

Sure! I just finished it last week anyway.

Thanks! I really want to read it before the movie comes out.

Root Explanation

Loan → The word 'loan' originates from Old English 'lǣne', meaning something lent or borrowed. It refers to the act of giving something to someone with the expectation of its return.

Memory Tip

Think of 'lending' something to someone — that's what a loan is, something given with the expectation it will be returned.

Visually Confused Words