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.
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