What term describes a charge on property for the payment of a particular debt?

The term that accurately describes a charge on property for the payment of a particular debt is "lien." A lien is a legal right or interest that a lender has in the borrower's property, granted until the debt obligation is satisfied. This means that if the debt is not paid, the lien allows the creditor to take certain actions regarding the property, such as pursuing collection methods or enforcing the sale of the property to recover the amount owed.

In contrast, a mortgage is a specific type of lien that typically involves real estate and is used as security for a loan. While a mortgage creates a lien on a property, not all liens are mortgages. An encumbrance is a broader term that refers to any claim, lien, or liability attached to a property which can affect its value but does not fundamentally specify a debt. Foreclosure is the legal process through which a lender can take possession of the property securing a loan after the borrower defaults, but it is not a term that describes the charge itself.