peculium

British  

/ pɪˈkjuːlɪəm /

noun

1. Roman law property that a father or master allowed his child or slave to hold as his own

---

Etymology

Origin of peculium

C17: from Latin; see _peculiar

Example Sentences

It thus appears that Petrarch had not given up his peculium on the Sorgue, nor had any one rented the field and cottage in his absence.

From The Sonnets, Triumphs, and Other Poems of Petrarch by Campbell, Thomas

His peculium, like that of the son in manu patris, was of course by law the property of his master.

From Roman Society from Nero to Marcus Aurelius by Dill, Samuel

Such a fortunate servant, by hoarding his peculium, might soon become a capitalist on his own account, and well able, if he chose, to purchase his freedom.

From Roman Society from Nero to Marcus Aurelius by Dill, Samuel

A son could acquire no property but with his father's consent, and what he thus acquired was called his peculium as of a slave.

From Roman Antiquities, and Ancient Mythology For Classical Schools (2nd ed) by Dillaway, Charles K.

But perhaps I err in claiming such men as the peculium of the Brothers,—they are the common heritage of the human race.

From A Collection of College Words and Customs by Hall, Benjamin Homer