Definition of demise

The word "demise" comes from the Middle English word "demisen," which was derived from the Old French word "desmeriz" or "desmerizier." The Old French word, in turn, was derived from the Latin word "demissus," which meant "released" or "let down." In Middle English, "demisen" was used to describe the act of releasing or letting go of something, particularly a legal right or property. It was often used in the context of feudal land tenure, where a lord would release or let go of a tenant's land or property. Over time, the meaning of "demise" evolved to include the act of dying or passing away. This meaning is still in use today, and "demise" is often used to describe the death of a person or organization. In summary, the word "demise" originated in Middle English from the Old French word "desmeriz" or "desmerizier," which was derived from the Latin word "demissus." Its original meaning described the act of releasing or letting go of something, particularly a legal right or property, but its meaning evolved to include the act of dying or passing away.