lent
v. · n.-
1 past tense of lend (v.) A2 Elementarythe past tense of 'lend'. You use this when you gave something to someone for a short time and expected it back.
the simple past and past participle form of the transitive verb 'lend'.
ExampleI lent him my umbrella because it was raining heavily outside.
ExampleThe bank lent the startup a significant sum of money, provided they could meet the strict repayment schedule outlined in the contract.
PitfallI lent a book from the library.I borrowed a book from the library.Use 'lent' when you give something to someone, and 'borrowed' when you take something from someone.
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2 religious period (n.) B2 Upper Intermediate Religionthe 40 days before Easter when some Christians give up certain foods or habits.
the period of forty days before Easter, observed in many Christian churches as a time of fasting and repentance.
ExampleShe decided to give up chocolate for Lent this year.
ExampleDuring Lent, many observers commit to a period of spiritual reflection and the temporary abstention from luxury goods or specific dietary habits.
UsageUsually capitalized as 'Lent'.
- fasting period
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3 university term (n.) C1 Advanced British English Formal Educationthe name of the second academic term of the year at some British universities.
the second term of the academic year at certain institutions, most notably the University of Cambridge.
ExampleThe students worked hard on their research projects during the Lent term.
ExampleThe university schedule is divided into three parts: the Michaelmas term, the Lent term, and the Easter term.
UsageOften used as 'Lent term'.