Archaic term for a gift, token, or first installment given as a sign of good faith or good luck.
From 'forehand' (done beforehand or in advance) + obsolete 'sel' (related to 'seal' or 'sale'). This rare medieval word meant something given first, beforehand, as a sign of agreement or good fortune.
A 'forehandsel' was kind of like a medieval good-luck charm or down payment—giving something first to ensure prosperity in a business deal or relationship!
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