† mainmort Obs.
[a. F. mainmorte = deadhand.]
a. = mortmain. b. French Feudal Law (see quot. 1727–41).
| 1387 Trevisa Higden (Rolls) VIII. 265. 1598 Dallington Meth. Trav. E iij b, Nominations of Chappels, goods of Main-mort, fifts of Lands sold. [1727–41 Chambers Cycl., Main-Morte, a term in some antient customs, still obtaining in Burgundy, signifying a right which the lord has, on the death of the chief of a family that is Mainmortable, of taking the best moveable in the house.] |