borrowing
UK: ˈbɒrəʊɪŋ | US: ˈbɑːroʊɪŋ
n. the act of taking and using something belonging to someone else with the intention of returning it
n. (linguistics) the adoption of words or phrases from one language into another
n. (finance) the obtaining of funds temporarily, often with interest
The word "borrowing" originates from Old English borgian, meaning "to lend or take as a pledge," derived from Proto-Germanic burgōną ("to pledge, protect"). The modern sense of "temporary use" emerged in Middle English. The suffix -ing turns the verb into a noun, denoting the action or result. The concept reflects a transactional logic—taking with an obligation to return, whether in material, linguistic, or financial contexts.
She asked for a borrowing of his notes before the exam.
English has many borrowings from French and Latin.
The company secured a short-term borrowing to cover expenses.
Cultural borrowing often enriches traditions.
Avoid excessive borrowing to maintain financial health.