n. & v.
--n.
1. death (left a will on her demise; the demise of the agreement).
2 Law conveyance or transfer (of property, a title, etc.) by demising.
--v.tr. Law 1 convey or grant (an estate) by will or lease.
2 transmit (a title etc.) by death.
Etymology: AF use of past part. of OF de(s)mettre DISMISS, in refl. abdicate