distrain
Americanverb (used with object)
-
to constrain by seizing and holding goods, etc., in pledge for rent, damages, etc., or in order to obtain satisfaction of a claim.
-
to levy a distress upon.
verb (used without object)
verb
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of distrain
1250–1300; Middle English distreinen < Anglo-French, Old French destreindre < Latin distringere to stretch out, equivalent to di- di- 2 + stringere to draw tight; see strain 1
Vocabulary lists containing distrain
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
They say That, when we make him outlaw, we shall find Nought to distrain upon, but empty cupboards.
From Collected Poems Volume Two by Noyes, Alfred
I sent him a final demand yesterday; if he doesn't pay up within the week, my orders are to distrain without further notice.
From Witching Hill by Hornung, E. W. (Ernest William)
The landlord can at any time distrain for his rent; what object, then, would he have in incurring expense, and encountering delay, to procure a decree, which, when obtained, would only restrict his former power?
From Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine - Volume 55, No. 343, May 1844 by Various
Both give the tenant a permanent interest, being leases forever, reserving annual rent, with the right to distrain and covenants of re-entry.
From The Chainbearer Or, The Littlepage Manuscripts by Cooper, James Fenimore
I told owd Titus as he mun pay us twenty pun' on Monday morning certain, or us should distrain.
From Anna of the Five Towns by Bennett, Arnold
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
