residuary

[ ri-zij-oo-er-ee ]

adjective

1. entitled to the residue of an estate:

   a residuary legatee.

2. pertaining to or of the nature of a residue, remainder, or residuum.

residuary

/ rɪˈzɪdjʊərɪ /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or constituting a residue; residual
2. law entitled to the residue of an estate after payment of debts and distribution of specific gifts

Word History and Origins

Origin of residuary¹

1720–30; < Latin residu ( um ) what is left over ( residual ) + -ary

Example Sentences

Maine, for example, he declared that “Federalism requires that Congress accord States the respect and dignity due them as residuary sovereigns and joint participants in the Nation’s governance.”

From Washington Post

If you do not specify, these assets are divided among the people who are entitled to your “residuary estate,” meaning what is left after expenses and specific bequests have been made.

From New York Times

This she had not done, but she had made Rupert her residuary legatee, leaving to him most of her jewels.

From Project Gutenberg

It was an age rife with demon legends; legends of favors granted to mortals in return for a residuary mortgage on their souls; and all that sort of thing.

From Project Gutenberg

Her second son was made the residuary legatee, and inherited a large estate.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• excessive
• expendable
• gratuitous
• redundant
• unneeded
• useless