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.
No more their rent-days they may keep, nor agents harsh distrain, The widow need no longer weep, for over is their reign.
From The Reminiscences of an Irish Land Agent by Sir Home Gordon, Bart.
When the landlord wishes to distrain, after waiting seven years or so, he has to get a decree.
From Ireland as It Is And as It Would be Under Home Rule by Robert John Buckley
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 James Fenimore Cooper
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
Barton, in spite of his good-nature, felt obliged to distrain.
From Christmas Stories by Edward Berens
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
