Law. [f. FRANK a.2 + FEE sb. Cf. Anglo-L. liberum feodum.] a. A tenure of lands in fee-simple, esp. as opposed to ancient demesne; see DEMESNE 4. b. Land so held.
1531. Dial. Doct. & Stud., II. ii. 7 a. Whan a plee is remoued out of auncyen demeane for that the lande is franke fee.
a. 1626. Bacon, Max. & Uses Com. Law, ii. (1636), 6. If tenant in ancient demesne, bee disseised by the Lord, whereby the seigniory is suspended, and the disseisee bring his assize in the Court of the Lord, Francke fee is no plea.
1741. T. Robinson, Gavelkind, v. 70. Yet in his Hands the Land is Frank-Fee.
