<p><strong>noun</strong></p><ul><li>A conveyance of an interest in real property as security for the repayment of money borrowed to buy the property; a lien or claim on property such that the lender can take possession if the loan is not repaid.</li><li>The deed by which such a transaction is effected.</li><li>The rights conferred by such a transaction, or the state of the property conveyed: I own a house under mortgage.</li><li>The total loan obtained or the periodic installment to be paid under such a transaction: They took out a $500,000 mortgage.</li><li>The obligation to repay such a loan; the debt incurred.</li><li>An advance obligation or pledge, usually involving some risk: Without good maternity care, some babies will be born with a long-term mortgage on their future health.</li></ul><p><strong>verb</strong></p><ul><li>To convey or place (real property) under a mortgage.</li><li>To place under advance obligation; to pledge, usually taking on some risk: to mortgage one's life to the defense of democracy.</li></ul>