Definitions for: Distraint

[n] the seizure and holding of property as security for payment of a debt or satisfaction of a claim; "Originally distress was a landloard's remedy against a tenant for unpaid rents or property damage but now the landlord is given a landlord's lien"

Webster (1913) Definition: Dis*traint", n. [OF. destrainte distress, force.]
(Law)
The act or proceeding of seizing personal property by
distress. --Abbott.

Synonyms: distress

See Also: seizure