Extensive Definition
The etymology of frankalmoign(e) is to be found
in two Norman
French words: franc meaning free; and almoigne or almosne
meaning alms.
Thus, in English law,
frankalmoign(e) is tenure in free alms. Gifts to religious
institutions in free alms were defined primarily as gifts given to
God, then to the patron saint
of the religious house, and then to the religious serving God in a
specific house.
Religious houses in receipt of free alms could
not recognise a secular lord. The gift of land or other property
made over to God and to a patron Saint, was inalienable and the
relationship between the grantor and the religious house was
subsidiary.