advowson

noun

ad·​vow·​son əd-ˈvau̇-zᵊn How to pronounce advowson (audio)
: the right in English law of presenting a nominee to a benefice

Word History

Etymology

Middle English avouweson, avouson, advowson, borrowed from Anglo-French avoueson "lordship, allegiance, right to nominate to a benefice," going back to Latin advocātiōn-, advocātiō "body of legal advisers, functions of an advocate," from advocāre "to summon, call to one's aid" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of action nouns — more at avow

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of advowson was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near advowson

Cite this Entry

“Advowson.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/advowson. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

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