(A) A term used in wills that refers to descendants of a common ancestor or branch of a family. See its application in will practice under per stirpes as opposed to per capita. (B) descents. The root, stem, or stock of a tree. Figuratively, it signifies, in law, that person from whom a family is descended, and also the kindred or family. 2. It is chiefly used in estimating the … [Read more...]
STIRPES
TheLaw.com Law Dictionary & Black's Law Dictionary 2nd Ed.