compurgation

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Though connected with the White-Cap affair by which Alfred lost his eyesight and his life, he proved an alibi, or spasmodic paresis, or something, and, having stood a compurgation and "ordeal" trial, was released.

From Comic History of England by Nye, Bill

There was no trial by compurgation, which was abolished by Henry.

From Our Legal Heritage by Reilly, S. A.

Sometimes the court decided offhand, sometimes compurgation was allowed immediately or on the next day, sometimes juries were formed and gave decisions.

From An Introduction to the Industrial and Social History of England by Cheyney, Edward Potts

Tithings and the process of compurgation came to the assistance of other criminals, but the ceorl could appeal to none, and expect neither pity nor aid.

From Legal Lore Curiosities of Law and Lawyers by Various

The Norman kings, indeed, had introduced into England a new method of deciding doubtful questions of property by the "recognition" of sworn witness instead of by the English process of compurgation or ordeal.

From Henry the Second by Green, Mrs. J. R.