The party that is making a claim. The party that makes or asserts a claim.
Law Dictionary – Alternative Legal Definition
In admiralty practice. The name given to a person who lays claim to property seized on a libel in rem, and who is authorized and admitted to defend the action. The Conqueror, 166 U. S. 110, 17 Sup. Ct 510, 41 IA Ed. 937.