Legal Definitions - precariae

Definition: Precariae (pri-kair-ee-ee) is a term used in Law Latin that refers to day labor that tenants of certain manors were obligated to give their lords during harvest time. It is also known as preces.

Examples: An example of precariae would be a tenant who is required to work on their lord's land during the harvest season without receiving any payment in return. Another example would be a tenant who is required to provide a portion of their harvest to their lord as a form of rent.

Explanation: Precariae illustrates the concept of a feudal system where tenants were obligated to provide labor or goods to their lords in exchange for the right to live on and work the land. This type of arrangement was often precarious, as the tenants were dependent on the will and pleasure of their lords and could be evicted or have their rights revoked at any time.