demise

/dɪˈmaɪz/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: demises · demising · demised

Sense 1

Meaning · English

The conveyance or transfer of an estate, either in fee for life or for years, most commonly the latter.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Transmission by formal act or conveyance to an heir or successor; transference; especially, the transfer or transmission of the crown or royal authority to a successor.

Noun

Examples

Immediately upon the Royal Assent being signified to this Act the Instrument of Abdication […] shall have effect, and thereupon His Majesty shall cease to be King and there shall be a demise of the Crown, and accordingly the member of the Royal Family then next in succession to the Throne shall succ

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To convey, as by will or lease.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To transmit by inheritance.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “demise” mean?

The conveyance or transfer of an estate, either in fee for life or for years, most commonly the latter.

Is “demise” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.