BusinessAugust 21, 2026

lienholder

LEEN-hohl-der

Definition

An individual or entity, such as a bank or lender, that has a legal claim to a property as security for a debt.

Etymology

The word is a compound of the French-derived 'lien' (a claim or hold) and the Old English-derived 'holder.' It refers to someone who holds a legal right against property to satisfy a financial obligation.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe an entity with a legal right to a property if a borrower fails to repay their debt. Protecting the rights of such lienholders is highlighted as an important factor when modernizing Minnesota's titling laws.

Unlocking Mortgage Access for Buyers of Manufactured Homes in Minnesota

Read the full article ↗

The Pew Charitable Trusts

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