Emily Dickinson Lexicon

PREM'IS-ES, n. [Fr. premisses; L. præmissa.]

1. In logic, the two first propositions of a syllogism, from which the inference or conclusion is drawn; as, All sinners deserve punishment; A. B. is a sinner. These propositions, which are the premises; being true or admitted, the conclusion follows, that A. B. deserves punishment.
2. Propositions antecedently supposed or proved. While the premises stand firm, it is impossible to shake the conclusion. – Decay of Piety.
3. In law, land or other things mentioned or described in the preceding part of a deed.