headright
Law. a beneficial interest for each member of an Indian tribe in the tribal trust fund accruing from the lease of tribal oil, gas, and mineral rights, the sale of tribal lands, etc.
American History. a grant of land, usually 50 acres to a settler, given by certain colonies and companies in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Origin of headright
1Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024
How to use headright in a sentence
This land arrangement, called the "Head-Right" system, formed the basis of the Virginia land system.
Hallowed Heritage: The Life of Virginia | Dorothy M. TorpeyWhen he had got his car's head right, Sam Stay shut off his engine, descended from his seat, and opened the door.
The Daffodil Mystery | Edgar WallaceOne day a polar bear came to the hut and thrust his head right through the window.
A Treasury of Eskimo Tales | Clara Kern BaylissThe first on the gospel-side was Pcuchet; but, too much moved, no doubt, he kept swaying his head right and left.
Bouvard and Pcuchet, part 2 | Gustave FlaubertHe would rally himself, and try to set his head right with another glass.
Doctor Grimshawe's Secret | Nathaniel Hawthorne
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