PAWN, n. [L. pignus.]
1. Something given or deposited as security for the payment of money borrowed; a pledge. Pawn is applied only to goods, chattels or money, and not to real estate.
Men will not take pawns without use.
2. A pledge for the fulfillment of a promise.
3. A common man at chess. [See Peon.]
In pawn, at pawn, the state of being pledged.
Sweet wife, my honor is at pawn.
PAWN, v.t. [L. pignero.]
1. To give or deposit in pledge, or as security for the payment of money borrowed; to pledge; as, she pawned the last piece of plate.
2. To pledge for the fulfillment of a promise; as, to pawn one's word or honor that an agreement shall be fulfilled.
PAWN'-BROKER, n. One who lends money on pledge or the deposit of goods.
