Found 2 items, similar to Mortmain.
English → English (WordNet) Definition: mortmain mortmain n 1: real property held inalienably (as by an ecclesiastical corporation) [syn: dead hand] 2: the oppressive influence of past events of decisions [syn: dead hand , dead hand of the past]
English → English (gcide) Definition: Mortmain Mortmain \Mort"main`\, n. [F. mort, morte, dead + main hand; F. main-morte. See Mortal, and Manual.] (Law) Possession of lands or tenements in, or conveyance to, dead hands, or hands that cannot alienate. [1913 Webster] Note: The term was originally applied to conveyance of land made to ecclesiastical bodies; afterward to conveyance made to any corporate body. --Burrill. [1913 Webster]