Definition

The agreement of a tenant to recognize a new landlord after a transfer of property ownership.

Example

The attornment was necessary for the new landlord to establish their rights over the property.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term attornment?

Yeah, I think it has to do with tenants and landlords, right?

Exactly! It's when a tenant agrees to transfer their lease to a new landlord.

That makes sense, especially if the property changes hands.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Attornment is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "tornare" (meaning to turn). The word originally referred to the act of turning or acknowledging a new lord or landlord, particularly in the context of feudal law.

Memory Tip

Think of 'turning' ('tornare') to acknowledge someone new ('ad-') — that's why attornment means recognizing a new authority.

Visually Confused Words