ˈpäkˌtu̇m noun
also pac·tio -ktēˌō
( plural pac·ta -ktə ; also pac·ti·o·nes ˌpäktēˈōˌnās)
Etymology: Latin
Roman law : an informal agreement between two or more persons containing one or more promises and usually legally unenforceable even when supported by a sufficient consideration except for certain pacta declared enforceable by praetorian edicts and imperial constitutions if arising out of a lawful cause or inducement