ˈfrank-fee Law.
[f. frank a.2 + fee n. Cf. Anglo-L. liberum feodum.]
a. A tenure of lands in fee-simple, esp. as opposed to ancient demesne; see demesne 4. b. Land so held.
| 1531 Dial. Doct. & Stud. ii. ii. 7 a, Whan a plee is remoued out of auncyen demeane for that the lande is franke fee. a 1626 Bacon Max. & Uses Com. Law ii. (1636) 6 If tenant in ancient demesne bee disseised by the Lord..and the disseisee bring his assize in the Court of the Lord, Francke fee is no plea. 1741 T. Robinson Gavelkind v. 70 Yet in his Hands the Land is Frank Fee. |