Lien

usgb/ˈliːən/
noun

A right to keep someone's property until a debt they owe is paid.

The bank had a lien on the car until the loan was fully paid.
Visual representation of "lien" - A right to keep someone's property until a debt they owe is paid

Often appears as...

  • property lien
  • tax lien

Usage tips

Formal

Technical

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "lien"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Legal Term

Used mainly in legal or financial contexts to discuss rights over property.

Illustration for Legal Term
Her lawyer mentioned the lien placed on her estate.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Property Connection

Often tied to property like houses or cars, indicating a financial claim.

Illustration for Property Connection
There's an outstanding property lien against my neighbor's house.
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Debt Related

Implies a debt that must be paid before the property is truly owned.

Illustration for Debt Related
I can't sell my car due to the lien from the bank.
Visual representation of the word "Lien"

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