1. The act or an instance of rendering a document legally ineffective by subtracting or altering — but not completely destroying — an essential part through cutting, tearing, burning, or erasing. [Cases: Alteration of Instruments
1. C.J.S. Alteration of Instruments §§ 2–4.]
2. Criminal law. The act of cutting off or permanently damaging a body part, esp. an essential one. See MAYHEM. [Cases: Mayhem
1. C.J.S. Mayhem §§ 2–6.] — mutilate, vb. — mutilator, n.