In land descriptions, what does the term 'metes and bounds' refer to?

The term 'metes and bounds' specifically refers to a system of land description that uses measurements, directions, and physical boundaries to define the perimeter of a parcel of land. This method relies on natural landmarks, such as trees, rivers, or stones, in conjunction with compass directions and distances to outline property lines. It is often utilized when precise boundaries are necessary, especially in irregularly shaped parcels rather than in a standardized grid system.

This approach allows for a detailed and flexible description of land that can adapt to geographical features, facilitating a more personalized depiction of property limits. In contrast, the other options refer to a more rigid structure for land descriptions, such as fixed grids or standardized legal definitions, which do not encapsulate the nuanced and descriptive nature of ‘metes and bounds’.