Definition

Noun: 1. A temporary substitute: A thing, typically a vehicle, that is lent to someone as a temporary replacement while their own is being repaired or is unavailable. 2. A person or entity that lends: An individual or organization, especially in a business context, that provides money or credit to another party.

Usage and Examples

• As a temporary substitute item:
  • "The dealership provided me with a loaner car while my vehicle was in the shop."
  • "The library offers technology loaners, such as laptops and tablets, for students to use on campus."
• As a person or entity that lends:
  • "The bank acted as the primary loaner for the business expansion." (Note: 'lender' is far more common in this context).

Advanced Usage and Notes

• The first meaning (temporary substitute item) is the most frequent and specific use of "loaner." It implies a courtesy or service arrangement.
• The second meaning (one who lends) is valid but is considered less common and more formal than the standard term lender. Using "loaner" in this sense might sound slightly dated or jargonistic in modern business English.

Variants and Related Words

• Loan (noun/verb): The sum of money lent or the act of lending it.
  • Example: "I took out a loan to buy a house."
• Lender (noun): The standard and more common term for a person or institution that lends money.
  • Example: "The lender required a credit check before approving the mortgage."

Synonyms

• For meaning 1 (temporary substitute): Courtesy car, replacement vehicle, substitute.
• For meaning 2 (one who lends): Lender, creditor, financier.

Antonyms

• For meaning 2 (one who lends): Borrower, debtor.

Noun

1. a car that is lent as a replacement for one that is under repair
2. someone who lends money or gives credit in business matters