Deed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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deed
[diːd ]
Definitions
legal document
A legal document that is signed and delivered, especially one regarding the ownership of property or legal rights.
Synonyms
conveyance, document, instrument.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| deed |
As a duplicate entry, it has the same meaning as described previously, referring to a legal document.
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| document |
A general term referring to any written or printed paper that provides information or evidence. It's not limited to legal contexts.
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| instrument |
A broader legal term, often used to describe a formal written document that records a legal act, contract, or agreement.
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| conveyance |
Used in legal and real estate settings to describe the act of transferring property or title from one person to another.
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Examples of usage
- He signed the deed to transfer ownership of the house.
- The deed was recorded in the county records.
- The deed stated the terms of the agreement clearly.
action or act
An action that is performed intentionally or consciously.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| deed |
Used for significant actions, often with implications of moral or ethical judgment. It can be good or bad but usually refers to notable actions.
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| act |
Refers to a specific occurrence of doing something, often within a formal or legislative context. It can also be used in legal or theatrical contexts.
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| action |
A general term for something done, especially when referring to a series of steps or processes. Often used in discussions about taking initiative or responsibility.
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| gesture |
Refers to a movement or an act typically done to communicate feeling or intention, often with a particular symbolic significance.
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Examples of usage
- She did a good deed by helping the elderly man.
- His kind deeds were well-known in the community.
- Performing charitable deeds can make a positive impact on society.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Significance
- In law, a deed is a legal document that represents an agreement or an ownership transfer of property.
- Some deeds require witnesses to be considered valid, ensuring that the action is recognized and legally binding.
Literature
- In many stories, a character's deeds define their heroism or villainy, showing how actions shape their identity.
- Famous literary works, like Shakespeare's plays, often explore the theme of deeds and their consequences.
Philosophy
- Philosophers debate whether actions or intentions are more important when considering moral responsibility.
- Deeds are often viewed as reflections of a person's character, highlighting the debate on ethics and morality.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'deeds, not words' emphasizes the importance of taking action rather than just talking about it, popularized in various forms of media.
- In superhero culture, heroic deeds often symbolize bravery and sacrifice, reinforcing the idea of acting for the greater good.
Origin of 'deed'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'dæd', which means an action or a performance.
- Back in ancient times, the concept of a deed was closely tied to promises and agreements between people.
The word 'deed' originated from Middle English 'dede', Old English 'dǣd', meaning an act, something done. The concept of deeds has been present in legal systems for centuries, with written documentation being crucial for transactions involving property or rights. Over time, 'deed' evolved to encompass both legal documents and moral actions, highlighting the dual nature of the term in modern usage.