Legal Definitions - batable ground

Definition: Batable ground refers to land that has uncertain ownership.

Originally, the term was used to describe certain lands on the border of England and Scotland before the two kingdoms were united in 1603.

For example, imagine a piece of land that is located between two properties, but neither property owner knows who actually owns the land. This would be considered batable ground.

The term "batable" comes from the word "debate," which means to argue or discuss. In the case of batable ground, the ownership of the land is up for debate or discussion.