Emily Dickinson Lexicon

ES-SOIN', n. [Norm. exon, excuse; Law L. exonia, sonium; Old Fr. exonier, essonier, to excuse. Spelman deduces the word from ex and soing, care. But qu.]

1. An excuse; the alledging of an excuse for him who is summoned to appear in court and answer, and who neglects to appear at the day. In England, the three first days of a term are called essoin-days, as three days are allowed for the appearance of suitors. Blackstone. Cowel. Spelman.
2. Excuse; exemption. Spenser.
3. He that is excused for non-appearance in court at the day appointed. Johnson.