intestate

UK: ɪnˈtɛsteɪt | US: ɪnˈtɛsteɪt

Definition

  1. adj. (of a person) not having made a valid will before death

  2. adj. (of property) not disposed of by a valid will

Structure
in <not>test <will>ate <adjective suffix>
Etymology

intestate = in<not> + test<will> + ate<adjective suffix>

  • in (Latin prefix meaning "not")
  • test (from Latin testari, "to make a will," related to testis, "witness")
  • ate (adjective-forming suffix indicating state or condition)

Etymology Origin:
The word intestate originates from Latin intestatus, combining in- (negation) + testatus (having made a will). The root testari reflects the legal act of witnessing or declaring a will. Over time, the term evolved in English to describe the absence of a valid will, emphasizing the legal consequences of dying without one.

Examples

  1. He died intestate, leaving his estate to be divided by the court.

  2. The lawyer explained the complications of handling an intestate inheritance.

  3. Without a will, her assets remained intestate for years.

  4. Intestate succession laws vary by jurisdiction.

  5. The family disputed the distribution of the intestate property.