Dedit

/ˈdɛdɪt/ noun

Definition

In Roman law, the unconditional surrender or submission of a person or people to the power of Rome.

Etymology

From Latin 'dedit,' meaning 'he/she/it gave.' It refers to the act of giving up completely to Roman authority. Used in historical and legal texts about Roman military and political history.

Kelly Says

When a Roman general would accept the 'dedit' of an enemy city, it meant total surrender—no negotiation, no mercy, just complete submission to Rome. It was the most absolute defeat possible in the ancient world.

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