replevin

 
Pronunciation: /rɪˈplɛvɪn/

noun

[mass noun] Law
  • a procedure whereby seized goods may be provisionally restored to their owner pending the outcome of an action to determine the rights of the parties concerned.
  • [count noun] an action arising from the process of replevin.

Origin:

late Middle English: from Anglo-Norman French, from Old French replevir 'recover' (see replevy)