dis·train
(dĭ-strān′)v. dis·trained, dis·train·ing, dis·trains Law
v.tr.1. To seize and hold (property) to compel payment or reparation, as of debts.
2. To seize the property of (a person) in order to compel payment of debts; distress.
v.intr. To levy a distress.
[Middle English
distreinen, from Old French
destreindre, destreign-, from Medieval Latin
distringere, distrinct-, from Latin,
to hinder :
dis-,
apart; see
dis- +
stringere,
to draw tight; see
streig- in
Indo-European roots.]
dis·train′a·ble adj.
dis·train′ment n.
dis·trai′nor, dis·train′er n.
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.