Borrow: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'borrow' comes from the Old English 'borgian,' which means 'to pledge or to give as security.'
• It is related to the old German word 'borgen' which carries a similar meaning of assurance and obligation.
• The use of 'borrow' dates back to at least the 12th century, reflecting a longstanding tradition of sharing resources.

Cultural Practices

• Many cultures practice borrowing among friends and family, which can strengthen social bonds and mutual trust.
• In some countries, borrowing without asking can be considered rude; respect for personal property varies globally.
• Community libraries exemplify borrowing as a way to share knowledge and resources among many people.

Psychology

• Research shows that borrowing behavior is often tied to trust, as people feel more comfortable lending items to those they know well.
• Sharing and borrowing can create positive feelings of community and belonging among individuals.
• The act of borrowing can also trigger feelings of anxiety in some people, especially if they fear not returning the item.

Finance

• In finance, borrowing refers to taking on debt, such as loans, which requires repayment with interest.
• Interest rates can affect how much people are willing to borrow, impacting everything from personal loans to government spending.
• The concept of borrowing in economics also includes the idea of leveraging investments for potential greater returns.

Literature

• Many stories explore themes of borrowing, such as friendship and the trust needed to lend something valuable.
• Borrowed items often symbolize relationships in literature, reflecting deeper emotional connections between characters.
• Authors may borrow ideas or styles from other works, leading to the evolution of genres and storytelling techniques.

At #6,091 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

• ...
• 6088 prevalent
• 6089 stained
• 6090 practiced
• 6091 borrow
• 6092 geological
• 6093 borrowing
• 6094 privately
• ...