hire-purchase system

[ hahyuhr-pur-chuhs ]

noun

, British.

1. a system of payment for a commodity in regular installments while using it.

Word History and Origins

Origin of hire-purchase system¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

He took the young man round to a neighbouring costumier’s, and secured a dress-suit on the hire-purchase system, at a very small outlay of ready money which he advanced.

From Project Gutenberg

You can get them on the hire-purchase system.

From Project Gutenberg

Why—you furnished on the hire-purchase system.

From Project Gutenberg

He knew all about the hire-purchase system.

From Project Gutenberg

Also houses could be built for people whose work takes them to town, but who want good air for their children; the hire-purchase system, you know.

From Project Gutenberg