GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

last match results

Found one definition

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.
   1913 Webster
   (Her.) A mark of dishonor on an escutcheon.
   1913 Webster
   (Law) The entry of a stranger, without right, into a freehold after the death of the last possessor, before the heir or devisee.
   Blackstone.
   
   1913 Webster
   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