Definition

A legal right that allows a lender to keep or sell a borrower's property if the borrower does not repay a debt.

Example

The bank placed a lien on the house after the owner failed to make mortgage payments.

Conversation

I just found out that my friend has a lien on her house.

Really? How did that happen?

She took out a loan, and now they have a claim on her property.

That sounds stressful; I hope she can sort it out soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lien → The word 'lien' comes from Old French 'lien', meaning a bond or tie. It refers to a legal claim or right against an asset.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'bond' or 'tie' that connects a legal claim to an asset — that's what a lien represents.

Visually Confused Words