In English public law. An annual sum granted by parliament , at the commencement of each reign, for the expense of the royal household and establishment , as distinguished from the general exigencies of the state, being a provision made for the crown out of the taxes In lieu of its proper patrimony, and in consideration of the assignment of that patrimony to the public use. 2 Steph. Comm. 591; 1 Bl. Comm. 332.
Black’s Law Online Dictionary
