Definition

To be available for someone to use in exchange for payment, usually referring to property or equipment.

Example

The apartment rents for $1,500 a month.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you seen that new cottage for rent near the lake?

Yeah, I heard it looks beautiful!

I think it rents for about $1,200 a month.

That's not too bad, especially with those views.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A regular payment made by a tenant to a landlord for the use of property or land.

Example

I have to pay my rent at the beginning of each month.

Conversation

Have you figured out how much your rent is going to be next month?

Yeah, it's a bit higher than I expected, unfortunately.

That's tough! I hope it doesn't go up too much more after this.

Root Explanation

Rent → The word 'rent' originates from Old French 'rente', meaning income or revenue, which in turn comes from the Latin 'rendere', meaning to give back or return. The term refers to the payment made for the use of property or land, essentially giving back a portion of the value for its use.

Memory Tip

Think of 'giving back' ('rendere') a portion of something you use — that's why rent means paying for the use of property.

Visually Confused Words