afford

verb

uh-FORD/əˈfoɹd/UKuh-FAWD/əˈfɔːd/

3 meanings of afford

1
pay forverbtransitive
To have enough money, time, or means to pay for or do something without trouble.
Like having just enough room left in your bag to fit one more thing.
We can finally afford a bigger apartment.
I can't afford to waste another hour on this.
UsageUsually with can or can't: I can't afford it. Say afford to buy.
2
provideverbtransitive
To give or provide something, often as a natural result.
Like a big window that lets you see everything outside.
The hill affords a beautiful view of the valley.
These tickets afford you entry to every show.
UsageSay something affords someone a thing: it affords you a view.
Note
3
verbobsolete
To sell or offer something at a price that still brings profit or only a small loss.
Note

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From Old English forþian, ġeforþian meaning 'to further, accomplish, afford'. It comes from a Germanic root meaning 'forth, forward'.

Checked 6 Nov 2026 · 3 facts

Afford derives from Old English forþian and ġeforþian. en.wiktionary.org
The Old English verbs meant 'to further, accomplish, afford'. en.wiktionary.org
The word ultimately derives from a Germanic root meaning 'forth, forward'. en.wiktionary.org