premise definition

Alternative forms:, less properly, premiss] [F. Premisse, fr. L. Praemissus, p. P. Of praemittere to send before; prae = before + mittere to send. See Mission.

1. A proposition antecedently supposed or proved; something previously stated or assumed as the basis of further argument; a condition; a supposition. "The premises observed, Thy will by my performance shall be served." (Shak)

2. <logic> Either of the first two propositions of a syllogism, from which the conclusion is drawn.

"All sinners deserve punishment: A B is a sinner." These propositions, which are the premises, being true or admitted, the conclusion follows, that A B deserves punishment. "While the premises stand firm, it is impossible to shake the conclusion." (Dr. H. More)

3. Matters previously stated or set forth; especially, that part in the beginning of a deed, the office of which is to express the grantor and grantee, and the land or thing granted or conveyed, and all that precedes the habendum; the thing demised or granted.

4. A piece of real estate; a building and its adjuncts; as, to lease premises; to trespass on another's premises.

(01 Mar 1998)