Lien

A charge on specific property that is designed to secure payment of a debt or performance of an obligation. A debtor may still be responsible for a lien after a discharge.

Source: U.S. Courts

---

A legal claim against property that must be satisfied When the property is sold.

Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

---

A claim against a property for the payment of a debt. A mortgage is a lien; other types of liens a property might have include a tax lien for overdue taxes or a mechanic's lien for unpaid debt to a subcontractor.

Source: Ginnie Mae

---

An encumbrance or legal burden upon property.

Source: U.S. Courts

---

A legal claim upon goods for the satisfaction of some debt or duty.

Source: U.S. Maritime Administration.

---

A claim upon property to prevent sale or transfer of that property until a debt is satisfied.

Source: Office of Child Support Enforcement.

---

A claim on property to prevent the sale or transfer of that property until a debt is paid. The lien may be enforced or collected by levying on the property. (See also levy.)

Source: California Courts.