Dic·tum n.; pl. L. Dicta E. Dictums
1. An authoritative statement; a dogmatic saying; an apothegm.
A class of critical dicta everywhere current. --M. Arnold.
2. Law (a) A judicial opinion expressed by judges on points that do not necessarily arise in the case, and are not involved in it. (b) French Law The report of a judgment made by one of the judges who has given it. --Bouvier. (c) An arbitrament or award.
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dictum
n 1: an authoritative declaration [syn: pronouncement, say-so]
2: an opinion voiced by a judge on a point of law not directly
bearing on the case in question and therefore not binding
[syn: obiter dictum]
[also: dicta (pl)]