Chattel

Chattel refers to any tangible, movable piece of personal property, excluding real estate and buildings. This encompasses items of ownership such as furniture, vehicles, livestock, jewelry, and various personal belongings. Historically, the term held significant weight, particularly in legal contexts, concerning property rights, inheritance, and often, the dehumanizing aspect of slavery, where individuals were considered chattels. In contemporary usage, while retaining its legal relevance, 'chattel' carries a somewhat archaic connotation, typically employed to describe the possession of personal goods or property assets within a defined jurisdiction.

Chattel meaning with examples

• Upon his passing, the lawyer meticulously documented his client's will, ensuring all chattels, from his antique car collection to the family heirlooms, were distributed according to his instructions, addressing the disposition of all personal property.
• The art collector insured their extensive collection, considering each painting and sculpture as a valuable chattel, understanding their financial worth and the need for protection against loss or damage.
• In the legal dispute regarding the estate, the court defined the disputed items, including the deceased's cherished sailboat and vintage motorcycle, as chattels to be addressed as such in the division of assets between the heirs.
• She was determined to sell all her chattels, hoping to acquire the funds necessary to move. Her house, and the chattels it contained, would become a clean break from her past life.
• The auction house specializes in selling valuable chattels, attracting collectors and investors eager to acquire unique artifacts and items of significant worth from diverse eras.