Divise

/dɪˈvaɪz/ verb

Definition

An archaic or legal term meaning to bequeath or distribute in a will; to devise or arrange by will.

Etymology

From Latin 'divisum' (divided, distributed), related to 'divide.' This word is mostly obsolete but appears in old legal documents.

Kelly Says

Old wills are full of 'divise'—'I do hereby divise my lands to my heirs'—showing how English legal language froze medieval vocabulary.

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