Emily Dickinson Lexicon

PAWN, v.t. [D. panden; Sp. empeñar; Port. empenhar; It. impegnare; L. pignero.]

1. To gave or deposit in pledge, or as security for the payment of money borrowed; to pledge; as, she pawned the last piece of plate.
2. To pledge for the fulfillment of a promise; as, to pawn one's word or honor that an agreement shall be fulfilled.