pawn

pawn · noun/verb

imported

Definitions

noun/verb

  1. 1.

    The smallest and most numerous chess piece, which can only move forward.

  2. 2.

    To deposit an object with a pawnbroker as security for money lent.

  3. 3.

    A person used by others for their own purposes.

  4. 4.

    An article left as security for money lent; something pawned.

Forms

plural: pawns

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    pawn off — to deceive someone into accepting something worthless
  • •
    pawn shop — a store where items are pawned
  • •
    in pawn — deposited as security for a loan

Related words

Antonyms: controller, leader
See also: chess, pledge, puppet
Synonyms: dupe, puppet, tool

Etymology

The chess piece sense comes from Old French paon ("foot soldier"), from Medieval Latin pedo. The security sense comes from Old French pan ("pledge, security").