1. The commencement of something, such as a civil or criminal action.
2. An elementary rule, principle, or practice.
3. An established organization, esp. one of a public character, such as a facility for the treatment of mentally disabled persons. — Also termed public institution. [Cases: Mental Health 31–37. C.J.S. Insane Persons§§ 45–47, 49–54, 57, 60–64, 66, 70.]
4. Civil law. A testator’s appointment of an heir; the designation of an institute. See INSTITUTE(5).
5. Eccles. law. The investiture of a cleric with a benefice, by which the cleric becomes responsible for the spiritual needs of the members of a parish. Cf. PRESENTATION(2); ADVOWSON.
