Legal Dictionary

abatement

Legal Definition of abatement

Noun

A reduction in some amount that is owed, usually granted by the person to whom the debt is owed. In estate law, the word may refer more specifically to a situation where property identified in a will cannot be given to the beneficiary because it had to be sold to pay off the deceased debts. Debts are paid before gifts made in wills are distributed and where a specific gift has to be sold to pay of a debt, it is said to "abate".

Example: A landlord might grant an abatement in rent

Etymology

From Old French abatement, French abattement.

Pronunciation

Noun

abatement (plural abatements)

The act of abating, or the state of being abated; a lessening, diminution, or reduction; removal or putting an end to; as, the abatement of a nuisance is the suppression thereof.
The amount abated; that which is taken away by way of reduction; deduction; decrease; a rebate or discount allowed.
(heraldry) A mark of dishonor on an escutcheon; any figure added to the coat of arms tending to lower the dignity or station of the bearer.
(law) The entry of a stranger, without right, into a freehold after the death of the last possessor, before the heir or devisee.

Derived terms

References

The Manual of Heraldry

Shorthand

Gregg (Version: Centennial, Series 90, DJS, Simplified, Anniversary, Pre-Anniversary): a - b - a - t - m

References:

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