Defn: A stop or pause by a party to an action, for the judgment of the court on the question, whether, assuming the truth of the matter alleged by the opposite party, it is sufficient in law to sustain the action or defense, and hence whether the party resting is bound to answer or proceed further. Demurrer to evidence, an exception taken by a party to the evidence offered by the opposite party, and an objecting to proceed further, on the allegation that such evidence is not sufficient in law to maintain the issue, and a reference to the court to determine the point. Bouvier.
DEMY
De*my", n.; pl. Demies. Etym: [See Demi-.]
1. A printing and a writing paper of particular sizes. See under Paper.
2. A half fellow at Magdalen College, Oxford. [Written also demi.] He was elected into Magdalen College as a demy; a term by which that society denominates those elsewhere called "scholars," young men who partake of the founder's benefaction, and succeed in their order to vacant fellowships. Johnson.
DEMY
De*my", a.
Defn: Pertaining to, or made of, the size of paper called demy; as, a demy book.
DEN Den, n. Etym: [AS. denn; perh. akin to G. tenne floor, thrashing floor, and to AS. denu valley.]
1. A small cavern or hollow place in the side of a hill, or among rocks; esp., a cave used by a wild beast for shelter or concealment; as, a lion's den; a den of robbers.
2. A squalid place of resort; a wretched dwelling place; a haunt; as, a den of vice. "Those squalid dens, which are the reproach of great capitals." Addison.
3. Any snug or close retreat where one goes to be alone. [Colloq.]