Definition

A legal right to use someone else's land for a specific purpose, such as for access or utility lines.

Example

The property owner granted an easement to the utility company to install power lines across his land.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new easement they added to the property next door?

Yeah, I saw that! It’s supposed to make access to the backyard easier.

I hope it helps with the drainage issues they've been having.

Definitely! An easement like that could really improve the whole area.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Easement → It originates from Old French *aisement* (meaning ease or comfort), which is derived from the Latin *facere* (meaning to make or do) combined with the prefix *e-* (meaning out of or from). The term refers to a legal right to use another's land for a specific purpose, thus providing ease or comfort in accessing resources.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ease' as a way to remember that an 'easement' provides comfort or access to something on someone else's property.

Visually Confused Words