title

TI'TLE, noun [Latin titulus. This may belong to the family of Gr. to set or put.] 1. An inscription put over any thing as a name by which it is known. 2. The inscription in the beginning of a book, containing the subject of the work, and sometimes the author's name. 3. In the civil and canon laws, a chapter or division of a book. 4. An appellation of dignity, distinction or pre-eminence given to persons; as duke, marquis and the like. 5. A name; an appellation. Ill worthy I such title should belong To me transgressor. 6. Right; or that which constitutes a just cause of exclusive possession; that which is the foundation of ownership; as a good title to an estate; or an imperfect title The lowest degree of title is naked possession, and lastly the right of property, all which united complete the title But possession is not essential to a complete title A title to personal property may be acquired by occupancy. A claim is not a title 7. The instrument which is evidence of a right. 8. In the canon law, that by which a beneficiary holds a benefice. This is true and valid, or colorable. A valid title gives a right to the benefice. A colorable title appears to be valid, but is not. 9. In ancient church records, a church to which a priest was ordained, and where he was to reside. TI'TLE, verb transitive To name; to call; to entitle.