What term describes something that is secondary or subordinate and acceptable as security for a loan?

The term that describes something that is secondary or subordinate and acceptable as security for a loan is collateral. Collateral typically refers to an asset that a borrower offers to a lender to secure a loan. If the borrower defaults on the loan, the lender can seize the collateral to recoup the financial loss.

In this context, the concept of being secondary or subordinate is important because collateral is often seen as a fallback for the lender, providing additional assurance that the loan will be repaid or that they have a means of recovering their investment. This is not about the primary amount borrowed (the principal) or the ownership interest in an asset (equity), nor is it related to a specific type of debt instrument (a debenture). Instead, collateral is a clear form of security that underpins many lending agreements, ensuring that the lender has something of value to claim in case of default.