Entail

Part of Speech

Verb, Noun

Pronunciation

IPA: /ɪnˈteɪl/, /ɛnˈteɪl/

Phonetic: in-TAYL, en-TAYL

Definitions

• (Verb) To involve (something) as a necessary or inevitable part or consequence.
• (Verb) To settle the inheritance of property so that it remains within a particular family.
• (Noun) A settlement of the inheritance of property over generations.

Usage Examples

• Success entails hard work and dedication.
• The legal arrangement entailed the property to the eldest son.
• The entail of the estate prevented it from being sold outside the family.

Etymology

From Old French "entailler" (carve, cut), from Latin "in-" (into) + "taliare" (to cut).

Synonyms

• Involve
• Require
• Necessitate
• Include
• Imply

Antonyms

• Exclude
• Prevent
• Avoid

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In American English, "entail" is pronounced with a clearer "t" sound, whereas in British English, it may have a softer articulation.

Historical Usage

Historically used in legal contexts related to inheritance, the term "entail" dates back to the 14th century, referring to legal property arrangements.

Cultural Nuances

In historical England, entails were a key feature of aristocratic landholding, often limiting ownership transfer outside a specific lineage.

More Information

The legal concept of entailment played a crucial role in English property law, preventing estates from being sold outside noble families.