What does PAWNS mean?

Parts of Speech:

"Pawns" is a noun and a verb.

Definitions:

As a noun, "pawns" refer to the smallest and least powerful chess pieces that are placed in front of the more important pieces. As a verb, "pawns" mean to deposit something as security for a loan or to sacrifice something or someone for personal gain.

Pronunciations:

• US: /pɔnz/
• UK: /pɔːnz/

Origin and Usage:

The word "pawn" comes from the Old French word "pan," which means "foot soldier." It was first used in English in the 15th century to refer to a soldier who was considered expendable. By the 16th century, the term was used in chess to refer to the least powerful pieces on the board. The verb "pawn" has been used since the 16th century to refer to the act of depositing something as security for a loan. It is also commonly used to refer to sacrificing something or someone for personal gain.

Synonyms:

As a noun, "pawns" are also known as chessmen, pieces, or tokens. As a verb, synonyms include mortgage, pledge, or hock.

Related Words:

Related five letter words include spawn, drawn, brawn, and fawns.

Example Sentences:

• The white pawns moved forward two spaces.
• He had to pawn his watch to pay for his rent.
• She was willing to pawn her principles to get ahead in her career.