compurgation

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The Norman kings, indeed, had introduced into England a new method of deciding doubtful questions of property by the "recognition" of sworn witness instead of by the English process of compurgation or ordeal.

From Henry the Second by Green, Mrs. J. R.

The form of the oath which she was to swear was then communicated to her and the day for the compurgation fixed.

From Grettir the Strong, Icelandic Saga by Unknown

The King or his representative in the community, called the "reeve", conducted the trial by compurgation.

From Our Legal Heritage by Reilly, S. A.

It resembled neither the Roman trial, where the judges made the decision, nor the mediæval compurgation and ordeals, where God was supposed to pronounce the verdict.

From An Introduction to the History of Western Europe by Robinson, James Harvey

Trover gradually supplants detinue, in which there is compurgation.

From Our Legal Heritage : 600-1776 King Aethelbert - King George III by Reilly, S. A.