Legal Definitions - invest

Investing means putting money into something with the intention of making a profit or generating income. This can include investing in businesses, property, stocks, or other securities.

For example, if you invest in a company by buying their stock, you hope that the value of the stock will increase over time, allowing you to sell it for a profit. Similarly, if you invest in a rental property, you hope to generate income through rent payments.

Investing is different from giving a gift or making a loan. A gift is given without the expectation of receiving anything in return, while a loan is expected to be paid back with interest.

The word "invest" comes from the Latin word "investire," which means to clothe or adorn. In medieval Europe, the term "enfeoff" was used to describe the practice of giving land in exchange for pledged service. Both "enfeoff" and "invest" signify putting someone in possession of something upon taking an oath of loyalty.