GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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1.       
   Abatement , n. [OF. abatement, F. abattement.]
   The act of abating, or the state of being abated; a lessening, diminution, or reduction; removal or putting an end to; as, the abatement of a nuisance is the suppression thereof.
   1913 Webster
   The amount abated; that which is taken away by way of reduction; deduction; decrease; a rebate or discount allowed.
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   (Her.) A mark of dishonor on an escutcheon.
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   (Law) The entry of a stranger, without right, into a freehold after the death of the last possessor, before the heir or devisee.
   Blackstone.
   
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   Defense in abatement, Plea in abatement, (Law), plea to the effect that from some formal defect (e.g. misnomer, lack of jurisdiction) the proceedings should be abated.
   1913 Webster