ˈüˌtēˌpäsəˈdād.ə̇s, ˈyüˌtīˌpäsəˈdēd.ə̇s noun
Etymology: Latin, as you (now) possess (from the wording of the formula of interdiction)
1. : an interdict in Roman and civil law for deciding the right to the possession of immovables and preserving things in statu quo pending the decision — compare utrubi
2. : a principle in international law that a conclusion or treaty of peace between belligerents vests in them respectively as absolute property the territory under their actual control and the things attached to it and the movables then in their possession except as otherwise stipulated (as by treaty)