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Pawn: meaning, definitions and examples

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pawn

 

[ pɔːn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

chess piece

A pawn is the most basic chess piece that can only move forward one square at a time, except for its first move when it can advance two squares. Pawns are crucial in controlling the center of the board and can be promoted to any other piece if they reach the opposite end of the board.

Synonyms

chess piece, pion

Examples of usage

  • The pawn moved two squares forward on its first move.
  • Capturing the opponent's pawn can give you a strategic advantage in the game.
Context #2 | Noun

disposable person

In a metaphorical sense, a pawn can refer to a person used by others for their own purposes, often without consideration for the individual's well-being. This term is commonly used in politics and power dynamics.

Synonyms

instrument, tool

Examples of usage

  • She felt like a pawn in their game of power and control.
  • He was just a pawn in their political maneuvering.

Translations

Translations of the word "pawn" in other languages:

🇵🇹 peão

🇮🇳 प्यादा

🇩🇪 Bauer

🇮🇩 bidak

🇺🇦 пішак

🇵🇱 pionek

🇯🇵 ポーン

🇫🇷 pion

🇪🇸 peón

🇹🇷 piyon

🇰🇷 졸

🇸🇦 بيدق

🇨🇿 pěšec

🇸🇰 pešiak

🇨🇳 卒子

🇸🇮 kmet

🇮🇸 peð

🇰🇿 пешка

🇬🇪 პაიკი

🇦🇿 piyada

🇲🇽 peón

Etymology

The word 'pawn' originated from the Old French word 'paon', meaning 'foot soldier'. In medieval times, pawns were considered expendable foot soldiers in battle. The term later evolved to represent the chess piece and its symbolic significance in the game. Metaphorically, 'pawn' expanded to describe individuals used as mere instruments or tools by others.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,568, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.