Definition

A legal term referring to a clause or provision in a contract that allows for the cancellation or annulment of the contract under certain conditions.

Example

The contract included a defeasance clause that allowed either party to terminate the agreement if specific conditions were met.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term defeasance?

Yeah, I think it has something to do with contracts, right?

Exactly! It's like a clause that can annul an agreement if certain conditions are met.

That’s interesting — I didn't know it could really void a contract like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Defeasance is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "facere" (meaning to do or make), combined with the suffix "-ance" (indicating a state or condition). The term refers to the condition of making something void or null, effectively taking it away or down from its original state.

Memory Tip

Think of 'doing away' ('facere') with something, as 'de-' suggests taking it down or away, which helps you remember that 'defeasance' means to nullify or void a condition.

Visually Confused Words