copyhold

American  

[kop-ee-hohld] / ˈkɒp iˌhoʊld /

noun

1. (formerly) a type of ownership of land in England, evidenced by a copy of the manor roll establishing the title.

2. an estate held under such ownership.

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copyhold British  

/ ˈkɒpɪˌhəʊld /

noun

1. 1. a tenure less than freehold of land in England evidenced by a copy of the Court roll

   2. land held in this way

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Etymology

Origin of copyhold

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; see origin at copy, hold ¹

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

copyhold

There are, however, a few minor exceptions to this rule, of which the most important are lands held in joint tenancy and copyhold lands.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 10, Slice 1 "Evangelical Church Conference" to "Fairbairn, Sir William" by Various

I may say at once that I fail to see any connexion between copyhold tenure and any express agreements between lord and villain.

From Villainage in England Essays in English Mediaeval History by Vinogradoff, Paul

If the husband surrenders his copyhold and the surrenderee is admitted, or if he contracts for a sale, it will defeat the widow’s freebench.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 11, Slice 1 "Franciscans" to "French Language" by Various

It is also termed privileged copyhold or copyhold of frank tenure.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 7, Slice 8 "Cube" to "Daguerre, Louis" by Various

The very fact of copyhold thus gaining on villain socage may have pushed this last on towards freehold.

From Villainage in England Essays in English Mediaeval History by Vinogradoff, Paul