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Dative

Black's Law Dictionary · Henry Campbell Black, M.A. · 1910

Black's Law Dictionary

A word derived from the Roman law, signlfying "appointed by public authority." Thus, in Scotland, an executor-dative is an executor appointed by a court of justice, corresponding to an English administrator. Mozley & Whitley.

In old English law

In one's gift; that may be given and disposed of at will and pleasure.