droit d'aubaine

noun

droit d'au·​baine

drwädōbān

: the right formerly possessed by the crown or state in France of confiscating all the property, real and personal, of which a domiciled alien died possessed

Word History

Etymology

French, right of escheat

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