Capitulary

/kəˈpɪt.jə.ˌwer.i/ noun

Definition

A collection of laws or decrees organized into chapters or sections, especially royal documents from medieval Europe.

Etymology

From Medieval Latin 'capitularium,' derived from 'capitulum' (chapter). These were formal legal documents organized by numbered chapters, recording royal or religious laws and regulations.

Kelly Says

The most famous capitularies are Charlemagne's—scholars have discovered hundreds of them showing his obsession with detail: rules about bridge construction, monastery organization, and even what food monks should eat!

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