abatement

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

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This entry was last updated on RefTopia from its source on 3/20/2012.