Addeem

/əˈdiːm/ verb

Definition

In law, to reduce or take away a bequest from a will because the heir has already received the gift during the testator's lifetime.

Etymology

From Old French 'adeem,' from Latin 'adimere' (to take away), from 'ad-' (to) + 'emere' (to take/buy). This legal term has remained virtually unchanged since medieval law developed in England.

Kelly Says

Addeem is a legal trap that catches people all the time: if your grandpa promised you $10,000 and later gave you a car worth $10,000 as a gift, the will might addeem the cash! It's designed to prevent people from getting double-paid, but it's created countless family lawsuits.

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