Distrain /(?)/
Dis·train
Distrain
v. t.
imp. & p. p. Distrained; p. pr. & vb. n. Distraining
- To press heavily upon; to bear down upon with violence; hence, to constrain or compel; to bind; to distress, torment, or afflict. [Obs.]
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To rend; to tear. [Obs.]
Neither guile nor force might it [a net] distrain.
- 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. (Law)
Distrain
v. i.
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To levy a distress.
Upon whom I can distrain for debt.