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Lien: meaning, definitions and examples

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lien

 

[ liːn ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

legal

A legal claim or right against a property, which is used as security for a loan or debt.

Synonyms

charge, claim, encumbrance

Examples of usage

  • The bank has a lien on the house until the mortgage is paid off.
  • The mechanic placed a lien on the car until the repair bill was settled.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A binding or restrictive duty, obligation, or debt.

Synonyms

debt, duty, obligation

Examples of usage

  • She felt a lien on her time due to her busy schedule.
  • There was a lien on his freedom because of his responsibilities.
Context #3 | Verb

legal

To legally claim a right to property as security for a debt.

Synonyms

charge, claim, encumber

Examples of usage

  • The bank can lien the property if the loan is not repaid.
  • The mechanic may lien the vehicle until the repair bill is settled.

Translations

Translations of the word "lien" in other languages:

🇵🇹 lien

🇮🇳 लिअन

🇩🇪 Pfand

🇮🇩 hak gadai

🇺🇦 застава

🇵🇱 zastaw

🇯🇵 担保 (たんぽ)

🇫🇷 sûreté

🇪🇸 gravamen

🇹🇷 rehin

🇰🇷 유치권

🇸🇦 رهن

🇨🇿 zástava

🇸🇰 záložné právo

🇨🇳 留置权 (liúzhì quán)

🇸🇮 zastava

🇮🇸 veð

🇰🇿 кепіл

🇬🇪 გირაო

🇦🇿 girov

🇲🇽 gravamen

Etymology

The word 'lien' originated from the Middle English term 'lien', from the Anglo-French 'lien', ultimately from the Latin 'ligamen', meaning bond or tie. The legal concept of a lien has been present in various legal systems for centuries, serving as a method to secure debts and obligations. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass both legal and general obligations or duties that restrict or encumber property or rights.

See also: liar, lie, lies, lying, underlying.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,126, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.