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intestacy

American  
[in-tes-tuh-see] / ɪnˈtɛs tə si /

noun

  1. the state or fact of being intestate at death.


Etymology

Origin of intestacy

First recorded in 1760–70; intest(ate) + -acy


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

If the three siblings are listed as beneficiaries — which can happen through the plan document’s default terms or state intestacy law — the 10-year rule may apply.

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 7, 2026

If you don’t have a will — called “dying intestate” — your assets are distributed by a probate court according to your state’s laws of intestacy.

From Seattle Times ● Jun. 27, 2023

Who inherits the assets, including any property, if an heir dies before the parent depends upon intestacy statutes, which vary by state.

From Washington Post ● May 16, 2019

Last month it emerged that the musician Prince died without a will - a situation known as intestacy.

From BBC ● May 18, 2016

These numbers form like a highest denominator for the different fractions which represent the shares of the different individuals that will benefit in case of intestacy.

From Directives from the Guardian by Shoghi Effendi

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