1. Definition and forms
The term interest (French intérêt; see Interest), in earlier Latin sources often called interesse, contrasts with German Zins – from Latin census, “valuation (of wealth),” “tribute.” Until well into the 18th century, it meant compensation for both the loan of money or movables (Loan for consumption [mutuum]) and the use of land or immovables (lease or rent interest, ground rent, rent charge; see Peasant property rights; Services, peasant), later it normally meant on…