plural leases
: a legal agreement that lets someone use a car, house, etc., for a period of time in return for payment
sign a lease
They took out a five-year lease on the house.
We hold leases on both of our cars.
The lease expires next month. = The lease runs out next month.
leases; leased; leasing
1
: to use (something) for a period of time in return for payment
She leases a red convertible.
I have leased this house for the last four years.
2
: to allow someone to use (something) for a period of time in return for payment
We leased the house to a young married couple.
Cite this Entry
“Lease.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/lease. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.
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