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Webster's Dictionary (1865)

4 entries under this word

Battel

Băt'tel, n.

noun

(băt'tl), n. [See BATTLE.] (Law.) A species of trial in which a person accused of felony was allowed to fight with his accuser, and make proof thereby of his guilt or innocence.

This species of trial was introduced into England by William, the Norman Conqueror. The contest was had before the judges, on a piece of ground inclosed, and the combatants were bound to fight till the stars appeared, unless the death of one party or victory sooner decided the contest. It is now abolished. Blackstone.

Băt'tel, v. i.

verbintransitive

v. i. [Cf. BATTEL and BATTEN.] 1. To grow fat. [Obs.] The well batteling of the babe pleads aloud for her care. Fuller.

  1. To stand indebted, at the buttery, at Oxford, England, for provisions and drink.
  2. To reside or keep terms at the university.

Băt'tel, n.

noun

n. [From O. Eng. bat, increase, and A-S. dæl, deal, portion.] Provisions taken by Oxford students from the buttery, and also the charges thereon.

Băt'tel, a.

adjective

a. [See BATTEL, v. i.] Fertile; fruitful; productive; prolific. [Obs.]

A battel soil for grain, for pasture good. Fairfax.