Emily Dickinson Lexicon

TI'TLE, n. [L. titulus; It. titolo. This may belong to the family of Gr. τιθημι, to set or put; Sax. tithian, to give.]

1. An inscription put over any thing as a name by which it is known.
2. The inscription in the beginning of a book, containing the subject of the work, and sometimes the author's name.
3. In the civil and canon laws, a chapter or division of a book.
4. An appellation of dignity, distinction or pre-eminence given to persons; as duke, marquis and the like. – Cyc.
5. A name; an appellation. Ill worthy I such title should belong / To me transgressor. – Milton.
6. Right; or that which constitutes a just cause of exclusive possession; that which is the foundation of ownership; as, a good title to an estate; or an imperfect title. The lowest degree of title is naked possession, then comes the right of possession, and lastly the right of property, all which united complete the title. – Blackstone. But possession is not essential to a complete title. A title to personal property may be acquired by occupancy. A claim is not a title.
7. The instrument which is evidence of a right
8. In the canon law, that by which a beneficiary holds a benefice. This is true and valid, or colorable. A valid title gives a right to the benefice. A colorable title appears to be valid, but is not. – Cyc.
9. In ancient church records, a church to which a priest was ordained, and where he was to reside. – Cowel.