Distrain

Definition of Distrain

Dis`train´

v. t.	1.	To press heavily upon; to bear down upon with violence; hence, to constrain or compel; to bind; to distress, torment, or afflict. [imp. & p. p. Distrained ; p. pr. & vb. n. Distraining.]
	2.	To rend; to tear. Neither guile nor force might it [a net] distrain. - Spenser.
	3.	(Law) 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. i.	1.	To levy a distress. Upon whom I can distrain for debt. - Camden.

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