Distress

[from L. Fr. destresse; L. Lat. districtio, q. v.] The taking a personal chattel out of the possession of a wrong doer into the custody of the party injured, to procure a satisfaction for a wrong committed; as for non-payment of rent, or injury done by cattle.

3 BL Com. 6, 7. do. Litt. 47.

The taking of beasts, or other personal property by way of pledge, to enforce the performance of something due from the party distrained upon.

8 Bl. Com. 231.

The taking of a defendant's goods, in order to compel an appearance in court.

Id. 280. 8 Steph. Com. 361, 363. Gilbert on Rents, S, 92. 1 Crabb's Real Prop. 224. 3 Kenfs Com. 461.

The thing or chattel itself, so taken or distrained. Spelman, voce. Distringere, Districtus. Termes de la leg.

See Distringas.