Definition of Additio Probat Minoritatem

An addition [to a name] proves or shows minority or inferiority. 4 Inst. 80; Wing. Max. 211, max. 60. This maxim is applied by Lord Coke to courts, and terms of law ; mmoritas being understood in the sense of difference, inferiority, or qualification. Thus, the style of the king's bench is coram rege, and the style of the court of chancery is coram domino rege tn cancellario; the addition showing the difference. 4 Inst. 80. By the word "fee" is intended fee-simple, fee-tail not being intended by it, unless there be added to it the addition of the word "tail." 2 Bl. Comm. 106; Litt. § 1.