defeasance

[ dih-fee-zuhns ]

noun

, Law.

1. a rendering null and void.
2. a condition on the performance of which a deed or other instrument is defeated or rendered void.
3. a collateral deed or other writing embodying such a condition.

defeasance

/ dɪˈfiːzəns /

noun

1. the act or process of rendering null and void; annulment
2. 1. a condition, the fulfilment of which renders a deed void
   2. the document containing such a condition

Other Words From

• nonde·feasance noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of defeasance¹

1400–50; late Middle English defesance < Anglo-French defesaunce, Old French defesance, equivalent to desfes- (past participle stem of desfaire to undo; defeat ) + -ance -ance

Word History and Origins

Origin of defeasance¹

C14: from Old French, from desfaire to defeat

Example Sentences

It must be of a thing defeasible, and all the conditions must be strictly carried out before the defeasance can be consummated.

From Project Gutenberg

Defeasance in a bill of sale is the putting an end to the security by realizing the goods for the benefit of the mortgagee.

From Project Gutenberg

A defeasance should recite the deed to be defeated and its date, and it must be made between the same parties as are interested in the deed to which it is collateral.

From Project Gutenberg

It is not strictly a defeasance, because the stipulation is in the same deed; it is really a condition in the nature of a defeasance.

From Project Gutenberg

Defeasance, de-fēz′ans, n. undoing: defeat.—adjs.

From Project Gutenberg