attentate

noun

plural -s

obsolete

: any step wrongly innovated or attempted in a suit by an inferior judge pending an appeal or after inhibition

Word History

Etymology

French attentat, from Middle French attentat, attemptat, from attenter, attempter to attempt (from Latin attentare, attemptare) + -at -ate (office)

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now