bloodwite

noun

variants or less commonly bloodwit
ˈ⸗ˌ⸗
1
early English law
a(1)
: a fine or amercement for the shedding of blood payable to the king, lord, or other superior in compensation for the breach of his peace compare wergild
(2)
: a penalty for murder
b(1)
: the right to levy such a fine
(2)
: exemption from payment of such a fine
2
Scots law : a broil or riot in which blood is spilled

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English blōdwīte, from blōd blood + wīte punishment

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Dictionary Entries Near bloodwite

bloodweed

bloodwite

bloodwood

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Bloodwite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bloodwite. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

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