Capax

/ˈkeɪpæks/ adjective

Definition

Latin legal term meaning 'capable' or 'able'; used in legal contexts to describe someone's ability to understand and act.

Etymology

Latin word 'capax' meaning 'able to hold' or 'capable,' from 'capere' (to take or hold), a fundamental root in Indo-European languages.

Kelly Says

In legal Latin, phrases like 'capax doli' (capable of committing fraud) were used to determine criminal responsibility—this ancient concept directly influences modern laws about when children or mentally ill persons can be held legally accountable.

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