GERMANIC LAW


Meaning of GERMANIC LAW in English

Law of the various Germanic peoples from ancient times to the Middle Ages.

It was essentially unwritten tribal custom, which evolved from popular practice and moved with the tribe. With the spread of Christianity, ecclesiastical law, derived from Roman law , gained importance, especially in matters of marriage and succession. A mercantile law, developed by the 12th century to meet the needs of traders, further eroded the power of local law.

Britannica English dictionary.      Английский словарь Британика.