ˈēzmənt noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English esement, from Middle French aaisement & aisement; Middle French aaisement from aaise- (from aaisier ) + -ment; Middle French aisement from aise- (from aisier ) + -ment
1. : an act or means of easing or relieving (as from pain, discomfort, or burdens)
a long needed easement of taxation
an easement of international tension
2. obsolete : food and lodging : entertainment
3. : a curved structural member used to prevent abrupt change of direction (as in a baseboard or handrail)
4. : an incorporeal usually nonprofitable interest granted by deed or created by will, deed, or prescription that is held by one person in land owned by another and that entitles its holder to a specific limited use or enjoyment (as the right to cross the land or to have a view continue unobstructed over it) — compare servitude