Demise

In its most extended signification, it is a conveyance either in fee, for life, or for years. In its more technical meaning, it is a lease or conveyance for a term of years. According to Chief Justice Gibson, the term demise strictly denotes a posthumous grant, and no more.

persons. A term nearly synonymous with death. It is usually applied in England to the death of the king or queen.
   

This entry contains material from Bouvier's Legal Dictionary, a work published in the 1850's.