n. & v.
n. 1 a a conveyance of property by a debtor to a creditor as security for a debt (esp. one incurred by the purchase of the property), on the condition that it shall be returned on payment of the debt within a certain period. b a deed effecting this. 2 a a debt secured by a mortgage. b a loan resulting in such a debt.
v.tr. 1 convey (a property) by mortgage. 2 (often foll. by to) pledge (oneself, one's powers, etc.). mortgage rate the rate of interest charged by a mortgagee. mortgageable adj.
[ ME f. OF, = dead pledge f. mort f. L mortuus dead + gage GAGE(1) ]