Legal Definitions - fidem mentiri

Definition: Fidem mentiri is a Latin term that means to betray faith or fealty. It was used in feudal times to describe a tenant who did not keep the fealty sworn to the lord.

Example: In medieval Europe, lords would grant land to their vassals in exchange for their loyalty and military service. If a vassal failed to keep their oath of fealty, they would be guilty of fidem mentiri. For example, if a vassal refused to fight for their lord in battle, they would be betraying their faith and breaking their oath.

Another example: A modern-day example of fidem mentiri could be a politician who promises to uphold certain values or policies but then goes back on their word once elected. This would be a betrayal of the trust placed in them by their constituents.

The examples illustrate how fidem mentiri refers to a breach of trust or loyalty. Whether in feudal times or modern-day politics, failing to keep one's word and breaking an oath is considered a serious offense.