This term is. now synonymous with “dwelling-house,” but had once a more extended signification. It is frequently used in deeds, in describing the premises. Marmet Co. v. Archibald, 37 W. Va. 778, 17 S. E. 300; Grimes v. Wilson, 4 Blackf. (Ind.) 333; Derby v. Jones, 27 Me. 360; Davis v. Lowden, 56 N. J. Eq. 126, 38 Atl. 64a
Although the word “messuage” may, there is no necessity that it must, import more than the word “dwelling-house,” with which word it is frequently put in apposition and used synonymously. 2 Bing. N. C. 617.
In Scotland. The principal dwelling-house within a barony. Bell.