To "lend" means to give something to someone temporarily, with the expectation that it will be returned. This can apply to various items, such as money, books, or tools. When you lend something, you allow another person to use it for a specific period, after which they are expected to return it in its original condition. Lending is common in everyday life and can occur between friends, family, or even businesses. In finance, lending often involves institutions like banks that provide loans to individuals or companies. The borrower typically agrees to pay back the amount borrowed, often with interest, over a set period.