As a Noun: 1. A person or institution that allows people to have and use some of its money for a period of time before they pay it back. English = lender. 2. A sum of money that you borrow from a lender. English = loan. As a Verb or Adjective: 1. To allow someone to have something or use it for a period of time. English = lend, loan. 2. To take something from someone and have it or use it for a period of time. English = borrow.