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distrain
[ dih-streyn ]
verb (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)
- to levy a distress.
distrain
/ dɪˈstreɪn /
verb
- law to seize (personal property) by way of distress
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Derived Forms
- disˈtrainment, noun
- disˈtrainor, noun
- disˈtrainable, adjective
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Other Words From
- dis·traina·ble adjective
- dis·train·ee noun
- dis·trainment noun
- dis·trainor dis·trainer noun
- undis·trained adjective
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Word History and Origins
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Word History and Origins
Origin of distrain1
C13: from Old French destreindre, from Latin distringere to impede, from dis- 1+ stringere to draw tight
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Example Sentences
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 Project Gutenberg
And God will make it dearer to you, if you put him to distrain on you for duty.
From Project Gutenberg
To distrain a debtor was illegal; any personal assault, however trifling, was sacrilege.
From Project Gutenberg
Her creditors had lost all patience, and were threatening to distrain on her property, and even to put her in prison.
From Project Gutenberg
When the landlord wishes to distrain, after waiting seven years or so, he has to get a decree.
From Project Gutenberg
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