Lend v. t. [imp. & p. p. Lent p. pr. & vb. n. Lending.]
1. To allow the custody and use of, on condition of the return of the same; to grant the temporary use of; as, to lend a book; -- opposed to borrow.
Give me that ring.
I'll lend it thee, my dear, but have no power
To give it from me. --Shak.
2. To allow the possession and use of, on condition of the return of an equivalent in kind; as, to lend money or some article of food.
Thou shalt not give him thy money upon usury, nor lend him thy victuals for increase. --Levit. xxv. 37.
3. To afford; to grant or furnish in general; as, to lend assistance; to lend one's name or influence.
Cato, lend me for a while thy patience. --Addison.
Mountain lines and distant horizons lend space and largeness to his compositions. --J. A. Symonds.
4. To let for hire or compensation; as, to lend a horse or gig.
Note: ☞ This use of the word is rare in the United States, except with reference to money.
To lend a hand, to give assistance; to help. [Colloq.]
To lend one's ears or To lend an ear, to give attention.
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