definition of the word abatement

From Old French abatement, French abattement.

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abatement (plural abatements)

1. 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.
2. The amount abated; that which is taken away by way of reduction; deduction; decrease; a rebate or discount allowed.
3. (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.
4. (law) The entry of a stranger, without right, into a freehold after the death of the last possessor, before the heir or devisee.

• defense in abatement
• plea in abatement

Definition from Wiktionary Content avaible with GNU Free Documentation License

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