Definition

A section of a legal document that specifies the extent of ownership or rights granted, often starting with the phrase 'to have and to hold'.

Example

The habendum clause in the deed clearly outlined the rights of the new property owner.

Conversation

I was reading about property deeds and came across the term habendum.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It's the section that defines the ownership rights in a deed, starting with 'to have and to hold'.

That sounds important, especially when buying a house!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Habendum is derived from the Latin verb "habere" (meaning to have or to hold) and the suffix "-ndum" (which indicates a gerundive form, suggesting necessity or obligation). The term "habendum" refers to the clause in a deed that specifies what is to be held or possessed, thus combining the idea of holding with the necessity of that holding.

Memory Tip

Think of 'having' ('habere') something that is 'necessary to hold' ('-ndum') — that's why habendum refers to what is to be held.

Visually Confused Words