A lien can best be defined as?

A lien is best defined as a creditor's claim against a debtor's property, which provides the creditor a legal right to keep possession of the property until the debt owed by the debtor is satisfied. This financial interest allows the creditor to secure payment, ensuring that they have recourse to the property in the event of default on the loan or obligation. Liens can be voluntary, such as those created when a borrower signs a mortgage, or involuntary, such as tax liens imposed by government entities.

In contrast, the other options pertain to different concepts. The governmental right to take property refers to eminent domain, while a tenant's right to occupy a property does not align with the definition of a lien, and a lease agreement doesn’t convey an interest in property as a lien would but rather outlines the terms under which a tenant can use the property. Thus, the definition provided by the correct answer accurately represents the nature and function of a lien.