Definition for CAP'I-TE

CAP'I-TE, n. [L. caput, the head, abl.]

In English law, a tenant in capite, or in chief; is one who holds lands immediately of the king, caput, the head or lord paramount of all lands in the kingdom, by knight's service or by socage. This tenure is called tenure in capite; but it was abolished in England by 12 Charles II. 24. – Blackstone.

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