Pawnbroking is a financial service in which individuals can borrow money by using personal items as collateral. The term 'pawnbrokes' refers to the person or business that provides this service. They lend money to customers and accept items of value, such as jewelry, electronics, or other items, as security for the loan. In exchange for the loan, the pawnbroker charges interest and fees. If the customer does not repay the loan, the pawnbroker has the right to sell the item to recover the money.