Francus tenens
Defined in 2 dictionaries — Ballentine's (1916), Burrill (1850)
Ballentine's Law Dictionary
James A. Ballentine · 1916
A freeholder.
A New Law Dictionary and Glossary
Alexander M. Burrill · 1850
Lat In old English law. A frank or free tenant; a freeholder; (libere tenens.) Spelman^ voc. Francus. One who freely holds lands or estates of his lord. Id. Si quis obierii francus tenens, &c; if any free tenant die <&c. Assis. de Clarendon, cited ibid.