The Collaborative International Dictionary
Lapsed devise
Lapsed \Lapsed\, a.
-
Having slipped downward, backward, or away; having lost position, privilege, etc., by neglect; -- restricted to figurative uses.
Once more I will renew His lapsed powers, though forfeit.
--Milton. -
Ineffectual, void, or forfeited; as, a lapsed policy of insurance; a lapsed legacy.
Lapsed devise, Lapsed legacy (Law), a devise, or legacy, which fails to take effect in consequence of the death of the devisee, or legatee, before that of the testator, or for other cause.
--Wharton (Law Dict.).