in rem

adverb or adjective

: against a thing (such as a right, status, or property)
used especially of legal actions, judgments, or jurisdiction
compare in personam

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin

First Known Use

1761, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of in rem was in 1761

Dictionary Entries Near in rem

Cite this Entry

“In rem.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20rem. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Legal Definition

in rem

adverb or adjective
: against or with respect to a thing (as a right, status, or interest in property) without reference to the persons involved
when the Government is proceeding against property in remAustin v. United States, 509 U.S. 602 (1993)
an in rem action
see also in rem jurisdiction at jurisdiction compare in personam, quasi in rem
Etymology

Latin

More from Merriam-Webster on in rem

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