Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: feudalism
Term: FIDEM MENTIRI
Definition: Fidem mentiri is a Latin term that means to break a promise or betray someone's trust. It was used in the past to describe a feudal tenant who did not keep their promise to their lord.
Simply put, fidem mentiri means not keeping your word and being disloyal to someone who trusted you.
Definition: Fidem mentiri is a Latin term that means to betray faith or fealty. It was used in feudal times to describe a tenant who did not keep the fealty sworn to the lord.
Example: In medieval Europe, lords would grant land to their vassals in exchange for their loyalty and military service. If a vassal failed to keep their oath of fealty, they would be guilty of fidem mentiri. For example, if a vassal refused to fight for their lord in battle, they would be betraying their faith and breaking their oath.
Another example: A modern-day example of fidem mentiri could be a politician who promises to uphold certain values or policies but then goes back on their word once elected. This would be a betrayal of the trust placed in them by their constituents.
The examples illustrate how fidem mentiri refers to a breach of trust or loyalty. Whether in feudal times or modern-day politics, failing to keep one's word and breaking an oath is considered a serious offense.