Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
lien
noun
/liːˈɛn/
Definition
A legal claim or right against assets that are typically used as collateral to fulfill a debt.
Examples
- The bank placed a lien on the house until the mortgage was paid off.
- She secured a lien against the property to ensure repayment of the loan.
- If you don’t pay your taxes, the government can file a lien against your property.
Meaning
A lien gives a lender a right to take or hold property until a debt owed by the property owner is satisfied.
Synonyms
- claim
- encumbrance
- hold
