The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Pignoration \Pig`no*ra"tion\, n. [LL. pignoratio, L. pigneratio,
   fr. pignerate to pledge, fr. pignus, gen. -ous and -eris, a
   pledge, a pawn: cf. F. pignoration.]
   1. The act of pledging or pawning.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. (Civil Law) The taking of cattle doing damage, by way of
      pledge, till satisfaction is made. --Burrill.
      [1913 Webster]

Bouvier's Law Dictionary, Revised 6th Ed (1856):

PIGNORATION, civil law. This word is used by Justinian in the title of the
52d novel, and signifies not only a pledge of property, but an engagement of
the person.