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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