01 n. 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…
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1.
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.
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2.
The amount abated; that which is taken away by way of reduction; deduction; decrease; a rebate or discount allowed.
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3.
A mark of dishonor on an escutcheon.(Her.)
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4.
The entry of a stranger, without right, into a freehold after the death of the last possessor, before the heir or devisee.(Law)
Phrases & compounds
Defense in abatement —
plea to the effect that from some formal defect (e.g. misnomer, lack of jurisdiction) the proceedings should be abated.