Definitio

Lat. [from definire, q. v.] In the civil law. Definition, explanation, exposition; the explanation of a thing, including, as within a circumscribed line or limit, (finis,) everything pertaining to it. Calv. Lex. Jurid. The establishment or laying down of a general rule. Id. Omnis definitio in jure civili periculosa est. All definition in the civil law is hazardous. Dig. 50. 17. 202. This maxim, otherwise expressed, Omnis definitio in lege periculosa, is frequently cited as illustrative of the difficulties attending definition in its ordinary modern acceptation, viz. the explanation of the meaning of words. Swinburne on Wills, part 1, sect. 3. But according to Calvin, it is not so difficult to define a thing exactly, as it is rare to be able to lay down a rule of law in terms at once so comprehensive and precise as to be proof against criticism. Neque tam est difficile rem aliquam in jure civili exacte definire, quam est rarum regulam ex legibus colligere quae nulla in parte infirmari queat. Calv. ub. sup. See Swinburne, ub. sup. in notis. A general rule or canon of law. Calv. Lex. Jurid.