Emily Dickinson Lexicon
Definition for HY-POTH'E-CATE
HY-POTH'E-CATE, v.t. [L. hypotheca, a pledge; Gr. υποθηκη, from υποτιθημι, to put under, to suppose.]
- To pledge, and properly to pledge the keel of a ship, that is, the ship itself, as security for the repayment of money borrowed to carry on a voyage. In this case the lender hazards the loss of his money by the loss of the ship; but if the ship returns safe, he receives his principal, with the premium or interest agreed on, though it may exceed the legal rate of interest. Blackstone. Park.
- To pledge, as goods. Park.
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