To allow someone to borrow or make use of something temporarily. Some linguists, especially in British English, believe that "loan" should only be used as a noun, while the correct verb is only "lend." Primarily heard in US. I can loan $20 to you, but I'll need it back by this weekend. Would you mind loaning your pencil to me? I forgot to bring one. The bank agreed to loan the money for the refurbishments to our company.

Given to someone on a temporary basis. We've got a backhoe on loan from Mike's construction company to help dig a ditch through the field at the back of the house. We're delighted to announce that we will have The Mona Lisa on loan from the Louvre.

To receive a loan of money from creditors or a financial institution. I had to take out a loan to pay for the medical expenses. Thankfully they were able to take out a loan and implement the repairs and upgrades the health inspector had demanded.

To allow someone to borrow or make use of something temporarily. Normally not used in reference to money. Some linguists, especially in British English, believe that "loan" should only be used as a noun, while the correct verb is only "lend." I can't come pick you up tonight—I loaned the car out to your brother. I stopped loaning my books out to friends because I never get them back.