Definition

A store where people can buy or sell items, often valuable, and where items can be given as collateral for loans.

Example

I went to the pawnshop to see if I could sell my old guitar.

Conversation

I found an old guitar in my attic yesterday.

That sounds cool! Are you going to keep it or sell it?

I was thinking of taking it to the pawnshop nearby.

Good idea! You might get a decent amount for it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pawnshop → The word is formed from "pawn" (from Old French *pan, paner*, meaning to pledge or give as security) and "shop" (from Old English *sceoppa*, meaning a place for trade). A pawnshop is a place where items are pledged as security for a loan.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pledging' something at a 'place for trade' — that's what a pawnshop is, where you give items as security for money.

Visually Confused Words