demurrer

Meaning

Noun

• A motion by a party to an action, for the immediate or summary judgment of the court on the question, whether, assuming the truth of the matter alleged by the opposite party, it is sufficient in law to sustain the action or defense, and hence whether the party resting is bound to answer or proceed further.
• Someone who demurs.

Origin

• From Anglo-Norman demurrer, form of Old French demourer ("to demur"), infinitive used as noun.
• From demur + -er.