1. [verb] (obsolete) To squeeze, press, embrace; to constrain, oppress.
2. [verb] (legal) (transitive) (obsolete) To force (someone) to do something by seizing their property.
3. [verb] (legal) (intransitive) To seize somebody's property in place of, or to force, payment of a debt.
4. [verb] (obsolete) To pull off, tear apart.
5. [verb] Levy a distress on.
6. [verb] Confiscate by distress.
7. [verb] Legally take something in place of a debt payment.
