assythment

[ uh-sahyth-muhnt ]

noun

1. Scots Law. (in historical use) compensation owed to the close relatives of someone who has been killed.

Word History and Origins

Origin of assythment¹

First recorded in 1540–50; Middle English (Scots) assyth “reparation, satisfaction” + -ment ( def ); asset ( def )

Example Sentences

An atonement was made by the payment of a sum of money called “assythment,” which was sometimes found sufficient to restore good feeling, and bring together in a spirit of amity families that had been at feud with each other.

From Project Gutenberg

I have nae male lineage, and I should bear with one I have made childless, though you are aware the blood-wit was made up to your ain satisfaction by assythment, and that I have since expedited letters of slains.—Weel, as I have said, I have no male issue, and yet it is needful that I maintain the honour of my house; and it is on that score I prayed ye for your peculiar and private attention.'

From Project Gutenberg