Middle English Dictionary Entry
affirmatī̆f, -ī̆ve adj.
Entry Info
| Forms | affirmatī̆f, -ī̆ve adj. |
| Etymology | L |
Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)
1.
(a) Positive, affirmative (as opposed to negative); (b) law bringing suit; ~ parte, the plaintiff.
Associated quotations
a
- (c1449) Pecock Repr.(Cmb Kk.4.26)506 : Forwhi summe comaundementis of God ben negatyues, that is to seie, werrnyngis or forbodis..Summe othere comaundementis ben affirmatyue comaundementis, that is to seie, biddingis that certein deedis be doon.
- c1475(c1445) Pecock Donet (Bod 916)179/13 : It is to be feelid of alle oþire goddis forbedingis, þat þei ben bettir tauȝt in affirmative biddingis þan if þei ben tauȝt in her owne foormes of forbedingis oonly.
- c1475(c1445) Pecock Donet (Bod 916)181/10 : Wheþir ech negative trewþe hangiþ vpon affirmative trewþe or affirmative trewþis, must be deferrid for his hardnes.
b
- (1475) RParl.61.137b : His said dedly enemye James Trefusis beyng in his said sute on the affirmatyff parte.