FEHMGERICHTE
\fˈe͡ɪmd͡ʒəɹˌɪt͡ʃt], \fˈeɪmdʒəɹˌɪtʃt], \f_ˈeɪ_m_dʒ_ə_ɹ_ˌɪ_tʃ_t]\
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The name given to certain secret tribunals which flourished inGermany from the end of the twelfth century to the middle of the sixteenth, usurpingmany of the functions of tbe governments which were too weak to maintain law andorder, and Inspiring dread in all who came within their jurisdiction. Enc. Brit. Such a<:i>urt existed in Westphalia (though with greatly diminished powers) until finally suppressedin 1811.
By Henry Campbell Black
Word of the day
Snake's-head
- Guinea-hen flower; -- so called in England because its spotted petals resemble the scales of a snake's head.