maim

MAIM, verb transitive 1. To deprive of the use of a limb, so as to render a person less able to defend himself in fighting, or to annoy his adversary. 2. To deprive of a necessary part; to cripple; to disable. You maim'd the jurisdiction of all bishops. MAIM, noun [written in law-language, mayhem.] 1. The privation of the use of a limb or member of the body, so as to render the sufferer less able to defend himself or to annoy his adversary. 2. The privation of any necessary part; a crippling. Surely there is more cause to fear lest the want thereof be a maim than the use of it a blemish. 3. Injury; mischief. 4. Essential defect. A noble author esteems it to be a maim in history. [Not used.]