amortization

A*mor`ti*za"tion, n. Etym: [LL. amortisatio, admortizatio. See Amortize, and cf. Admortization.] 1. (Law) Defn: The act or right of alienating lands to a corporation, which was considered formerly as transferring them to dead hands, or in mortmain. 2. The extinction of a debt, usually by means of a sinking fund; also, the money thus paid. Simmonds.

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