Legal Definitions - cyrographum

Definition: Cyrographum is a term used in Law Latin that refers to a handwritten instrument or a written deed that is subscribed and witnessed. It is also known as chirograph.

In the past, when deeds were more concise, it was common to write both parts of the deed on the same piece of parchment, with a word or letters of the alphabet written between them. The parchment was then cut in a straight or indented line, leaving half the word on one part and half on the other. This type of deed was called a syngrapha by the canonists and chirographa or hand-writings in English.

For example, a cyrographum could be a written agreement between two parties that is signed and witnessed. It could also be a deed that is separated into two parts, with each party retaining one part.

These examples illustrate how a cyrographum is a handwritten instrument or a written deed that is subscribed and witnessed. It can also refer to a deed that is separated into two parts, with each party retaining one part.