distrain
Americanverb (used with object)
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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.
I can believe, it shall you grieve, And somewhat you distrain; But, afterward, your paines hard Within a day or twain Shall soon aslake; and ye shall take Comfort to you again.
From English Songs and Ballads by T. W. H. (Thomas William Hodgson) Crosland
After which the visitor informed Hirschler that he had come to distrain.
From An Englishman in Paris Notes and Recollections by Albert D.
He describes the interior of a cottage like a person sent there to distrain for rent.
From Lectures on the English Poets Delivered at the Surrey Institution by Alfred Rayney Waller
The tithe-gatherers would be out to distrain in a particular parish, and find loads of the humble chattels, which they meant to seize, already carted over the boundary into the next parish.
From The Romance of a Pro-Consul Being The Personal Life And Memoirs Of The Right Hon. Sir George Grey, K.C.B. by James Milne
Nutter can distrain for his rent to-morrow, and Cluffe called him outside the bar to speak with him; put that and that together, Sir.'
From The House by the Church-Yard by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu
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