pawn

[pɔːn]

pawn Definition

• 1. a chess piece of the smallest size and least value, which moves one square forward along its file if unobstructed or two on the first move, and captures opposing pieces diagonally
• 2. a person used by others for their own purposes
• 3. a pledge or deposit of personal property as security for a loan

Using pawn: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "pawn" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  He sacrificed his pawn to gain an advantage in the endgame.

• Example

  She felt like a pawn in her boss's game.

• Example

  I had to pawn my watch to pay for the rent.

• Example

  The pawnshop owner offered him $50 for the guitar.

pawn Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for pawn

• chessman
• hock
• gager

Phrases with pawn

• pawn off

  to dispose of something by selling it or giving it away, often in a deceitful manner

  Example

  He tried to pawn off his old car as new.

• pawn ticket

  a receipt given by a pawnbroker for an item pledged as security for a loan

  Example

  He lost his pawn ticket and couldn't retrieve his watch.

• pawn shop

  a shop where loans are made with personal property as security

  Example

  He went to the pawn shop to get some quick cash.

Origins of pawn

from Old French 'pan', meaning 'foot soldier'

📌

Summary: pawn in Brief

The term 'pawn' [pɔːn] has three main meanings: a chess piece of the smallest size and least value; a person used by others for their own purposes; and a pledge or deposit of personal property as security for a loan. It is often used in phrases such as 'pawn off,' 'pawn ticket,' and 'pawn shop.'