Zálogot
Zálogot is a Hungarian word that translates to "pledge" or "pawn" in English. It refers to an item of value that is given as security for a loan. If the borrower fails to repay the loan, the lender has the right to keep the pledged item. This practice is common in pawnshops, where individuals can obtain short-term loans by leaving valuable possessions such as jewelry, electronics, or musical instruments as collateral. The borrower typically has a set period to repay the loan with interest. If they do so, the pledged item is returned. Failure to repay results in the forfeiture of the item, which the pawnshop can then sell to recover its losses.
The concept of zálogot has a long history and is found in various cultures and legal systems.