Duhaime's Law Dictionary Chattel Definition: Moveable items of property which are neither land nor permanently attached to land or a building, either directly or vicariously through attachment to real property. Related Terms: Fixtures, Movable, Real Property, Personal Property, Chattel Mortgage, Goods, Property Moveable items of property which are neither land nor permanently attached to land or a building, either directly or vicariously through attachment to real property; also known as personal property. The word "chattel" came from the feudal era when "cattle" was the most valuable property besides land. A piano is chattel but an apartment building, a tree or a concrete building foundation are not. The opposite of chattel is real property which includes lands or buildings. All property which is not real property is said to be chattel. Personal property or "personalty" are other words sometimes used to describe the concept of chattel. Categories & Topics: Property Law Dictionary Always looking up definitions? Save time with our search provider (modern browsers only) If you find an error or omission in Duhaime's Law Dictionary, or if you have suggestion for a legal term, we'd love to hear from you!