Word Meaning

distrain definition and meaning

v. t. To press heavily upon; to bear down upon with violence; hence, to constrain or compel; to bind; to distress, torment, or afflict.
v. t. To rend; to tear.
v. t. To seize, as a pledge or indemnification; to take possession of as security for nonpayment of rent, the reparation of an injury done, etc.; to take by distress; as, to distrain goods for rent, or of an amercement.
v. t. To subject to distress; to coerce; as, to distrain a person by his goods and chattels.
v. i. To levy a distress.