\ ˌsī-ˈprā
, ˌsē-
\
, ˌsē-
\
Definition of cy pres
(Entry 1 of 2)
: a rule providing for the interpretation of instruments in equity as nearly as possible in conformity to the intention of the testator when literal construction is illegal, impracticable, or impossible
— called also cy pres doctrine
cy pres
adverbDefinition of cy pres (Entry 2 of 2)
: in accordance with the rule of cy pres
Learn More About cy pres
Statistics for cy pres
Look-up Popularity
Cite this Entry
“Cy pres.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cy%20pres. Accessed 18 Aug. 2022.
Style: MLA
MLA
Chicago
APA
Merriam-Webster
Chicago
APA
Merriam-Webster
More Definitions for cy pres
cy pres
noun
\ ˌsē-ˈprā
\
\
Legal Definition of cy pres
(Entry 1 of 2)
: a rule in the law of trusts and estates that provides for the interpretation of instruments as nearly as possible in conformity with the intention of the testator when literal construction is illegal, impracticable, or impossible
cy pres
adverbLegal Definition of cy pres (Entry 2 of 2)
: in accordance with the rule of cy pres
Test Your Vocabulary
Odd Habits and Quirks
-
- Which of the following best describes an easily irritated person?
Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
TAKE THE QUIZ
A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
-
What Are You Wearing?
Roll up your sleeves and identify these garments
Take the quiz
-
Name That Animal: Volume 2
Can you tell a meerkat from a wombat?
Take the quiz
-
How Strong Is Your Vocabulary?
Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
Take the quiz
-
Spelling Bee Quiz
Can you outdo past winners of the National Spelli...
Take the quiz
Share cy pres
Time Traveler for cy pres
The first known use of cy pres was in 1802
See more words from the same year