Borrowed
/ˈbɒrəʊd/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo take something temporarily from someone else with the intention of returning it.
/ˈbɒrəʊd/
To take and use (something) belonging to someone else with the intention of returning it.
She borrowed a book from the library.
💡 Simply: To get something from someone for a short time and give it back later.
More Examples
He borrowed money from his parents.
How It's Used
"I borrowed a cup of sugar from my neighbor."
"The company borrowed heavily to finance its expansion."
Taken from someone else; not original.
/ˈbɒrəʊd/
Taken or obtained from someone else; not one's own.
The melody is a borrowed one.
💡 Simply: Taken from someone else, not your own.
More Examples
That statement is a borrowed idea from a previous paper.
How It's Used
"The essay contained several borrowed ideas."
From Old English *borowian, from borh "surety, pledge," ultimately of Germanic origin.
The word 'borrow' has been used in similar contexts for centuries, reflecting the long-standing practice of exchanging goods and services.
Memory tip
Think of 'borrowing' as a temporary loan.