testamentary

[ tes-tuh-men-tuh-ree, -men-tree ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or of the nature of a testament or will.
2. given, bequeathed, done, or appointed by will.
3. set forth or contained in a will.

testamentary

/ ˌtɛstəˈmɛntərɪ /

adjective

1. of or relating to a will or testament
2. derived from, bequeathed, or appointed by a will
3. contained or set forth in a will

Other Words From

• nontes·ta·menta·ry adjective
• untes·ta·mental adjective
• untes·ta·menta·ry adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of testamentary¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English word from Latin word testāmentārius. See testament, -ary

Example Sentences

Her attorney argued that the couple had two postnuptial agreements that placed limits on Larry King’s ability to make testamentary gifts to his children, and the holographic will violates the terms of those agreements.

From Los Angeles Times

The booming economy and accompanying robust stock market spurred charitable giving by individuals, corporations, foundations bequests and testamentary gifts to U.S. charities estimated at $410 billion in 2017.

From Washington Times

In her court filings, Nelson said she did not know of the existence of a will and had "no reason to believe that the Decedent executed testamentary documents in any form."

From Reuters

Critics of testamentary freedom say it can also be used to coerce and control.

From BBC

“He left some amounts to his sibling, to his children, to his grandchildren and through his testamentary documents, and they’re probably not happy with that … It’s really all about money,” Bryson told PEOPLE.

From Time