What do 'bounds' refer to in a metes and bounds description?

In a metes and bounds description, 'bounds' specifically refer to the landmarks or monuments that serve as markers to define the boundaries of a parcel of land. This method of land description relies on physical features and points of reference in the environment, such as trees, rivers, or roads, which help outline the perimeter of the property being described. Such landmarks ensure clarity and precision in identifying the exact location and extent of the land, making it possible to determine its limits.

While the other options reference important aspects of property descriptions and ownership, they do not define 'bounds' in the context of metes and bounds. For instance, directions and distances describe the course of the boundaries but do not encompass the idea of markers, and legal documents or historical records pertain to ownership and property rights rather than the measurement technique itself. Thus, the essence of 'bounds' lies in its connection to physical markers that distinctly delineate a property's boundaries.