Distrain
A New Law Dictionary and Glossary · Alexander M. Burrill · 1850
A New Law Dictionary and Glossary
Distrein. [from L. Fr. distreindre, destreindre; L. Lat. distringere, to bind or coerce.] To take and keep the property of another as a pledge, (ceu pignus et vadem,) in order to compel the performance of some duty; such as the payment of rent, the performance of services, an appearance in court, &c.
Spelman. 3 Bl. Com. 231.