assumpsit

noun

as·​sump·​sit ə-ˈsəm(p)-sət 

1

: an express or implied promise or contract not under seal on which an action may be brought

2

a

: a former common-law action brought to recover damages alleged from the breach of an assumpsit

b

: an action to recover damages for breach of a contract

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, he undertook, from Latin assumere to undertake

First Known Use

1590, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Legal Definition

assumpsit

noun

as·​sump·​sit ə-ˈsəmp-sit 

: an express or implied promise or contract or quasi contract the breach of which may be grounds for a suit

also : a common-law action that may be brought for such a breach compare covenant, debt

Note: The action of assumpsit developed in early English law and is still available in the U.S. in some jurisdictions.

Etymology

Medieval Latin, he/she undertook