escheat

/ˈɛʃt/ or /ɪˈʃiːt/

Definitions

1. noun

the reversion of property to the state or crown due to the owner’s death or other circumstances without an heir; a right of the state to take ownership of property when the owner dies without a will or heirs

“The estate will fall into escheat if there are no living heirs to claim it.”

Synonyms

  • devolution
  • reversion

Antonyms

  • bequest
  • inheritance