The name given to certain secret tribunals which flourished in Germany from the end of the twelfth century to the middle of the sixteenth, usurping many of the functions of the governments which were too weak to maintain law and order, and Inspiring dread in all who came within their jurisdiction . Enc. Brit. Such existed in Westphalia (though with greatly diminished powers) until finally suppressedin 1811.
Black’s Law Online Dictionary
