demurrer

Meanings

1. A motion by a party to a legal action for the immediate or summary judgment of the court on the question of 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 bringing the motion is required to answer or proceed further.

1. Someone who demurs.

Etymology

From Anglo-Norman demurrer, form of Old French demourer (“to demur”), infinitive used as noun.