verleihen
Translation
to lend, to award, to bestow, to rent out
Examples
Die Bibliothek verleiht Bücher.
The library lends books.
Ihm wurde ein Preis verliehen.
He was awarded a prize.
Das verleiht dem Raum eine besondere Atmosphäre.
That gives the room a special atmosphere.
Grammar Patterns
((j-m)) ((et4)) verleihen to lend (sth.) to (sb.) The library lends books to the students.
((j-m)) ((et4)) verleihen to award (sth.) to (sb.) The author was awarded the Nobel Prize.
Similar Words
Synonyms: geben (to give), borgen (to lend); Antonym: ausleihen (to borrow)
Etymology
From the prefix 'ver-' (indicating a transaction or change) + 'leihen' (to lend/borrow). A more formal version of 'leihen'.
Memory Tips
While 'leihen' is for personal lending, 'verleihen' is more official, like a library lending books or an organisation awarding a prize.