devisee

American  

[dih-vahy-zee, dev-uh-zee] / dɪ vaɪˈzi, ˌdɛv ə zi /

noun

Law.

1. a person to whom a devise is made.

---

devisee British  

/ ˌdɛvɪ-, dɪvaɪˈziː /

noun

1. property law a person to whom property, esp realty, is devised by will Compare legatee

---

Etymology

Origin of devisee

First recorded in 1535–45; devise + -ee

Example Sentences

A devise of lands may consist of the entire estate or interest of the testator, or he may give the devisee a lesser interest in them.

From Putnam's Handy Law Book for the Layman by Bolles, Albert Sidney

The principal part of this large inheritance was devised to Winfield Scott, but, the devisee having married again and had issue, the will was abrogated.

From General Scott by Wright, Marcus Joseph

If a devisee die before the testator, his heirs shall inherit the amount so devised to him unless from the terms of the will a contrary intent is manifest.

From Legal Status of Women in Iowa by Wilson, Jennie L. (Jennie Lansley)

Devise, in legal usage, is property used to denote a gift by will of real property, and he to whom it is given is called the devisee.

From Webster's Unabridged Dictionary (2nd 100 Pages) by Webster, Noah

If he dies intestate it goes to his heir-at-law, and if he devises the estate it goes to the devisee.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 13, Slice 2 "Hearing" to "Helmond" by Various

Related Words

• beneficiary
• inheritor
• scion
• successor