Langimage
English

chattel

|chat-tel|

C1

/ˈtʃætəl/

movable property

Etymology
Etymology Information

'chattel' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'chatel,' where 'chatel' meant 'property.'

Historical Evolution

'chatel' changed from the Old French word 'chatel' and eventually became the modern English word 'chattel'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'property or goods,' but over time it evolved to include the meaning of 'slave or bondman.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an item of personal property that is movable, as opposed to real estate.

The family heirlooms were considered chattels and were divided among the siblings.

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Antonyms

Noun 2

a slave or bondman; a person considered the property of another.

In history, slaves were often referred to as chattels.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41