chevisance

noun chev·i·sance \ ˈshevəsən(t)s , -zən- \

Definition of chevisance

plural -s

1 archaic : undertaking, enterprise; especially : chivalrous enterprise or prowess : chivalry

2 : an unlawful transaction or contract; especially : a transaction intended to evade the statutes against usury

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Origin and Etymology of chevisance

Middle English chevisaunce achievement, resource, supply, booty (whence by misunderstanding the meaning “enterprise”), from Middle French chevisance, from Old French, from chevir to come to an end, perform, from chief head