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The blending and mixing property belonging to different persons, in order to divide it equally. 2 Bl. Oomm. 190. Anciently applied to the mixing and blending of lands given to one daughter in frank marriage, with those descending to her and her sisters in fee simple, for the purpose of dividing the whole equally among them; without which the daughter who held in frank marriage … [Read more...] about HOTCHPOT

A person who is given into the possession of the enemy, in a public war, his freedom (or life) to stand as security for the performance of some contract or promise made by the belligerent power giving the hostage with the other. … [Read more...] about HOSTAGE

An inn; a public house or tavern; a house for entertaining strangers or travelers. St. Louis v. Siegrist, 46 Mo. 594; People v. Jones, 54 Barb. (N. Y.) 316; Cromwell v. Stephens, 2 Daly (N. Y.) 19. Synonyms. In law, there is no difference whatever between the terms "hotel," "inn," and "tavern." except that in some states a statutory definition has been given to the word "hotel, … [Read more...] about HOTEL

In old records. A right to receive lodging and entertainment anciently reserved by lords in the houses of their tenants. Cowell. … [Read more...] about HOSTELAGIUM

In old English law. This was a test in cases of accusation, by hot water; the party accused and suspected being appointed by the judge to put his arms up to the elbows in seething hot water, which, after sundry prayers and invocations, he did, and was, by the effect which followed, judged guilty or innocent. Wharton. … [Read more...] about HOT-WATER ORDEAL