'Mortmain' definitions:

Definition of 'mortmain'

noun

Real property held inalienably (as by an ecclesiastical corporation) [syn: mortmain, dead hand]

noun

The oppressive influence of past events or decisions [syn: dead hand, dead hand of the past, mortmain]

From: GCIDE

Mortmain \Mort"main`\, n. [F. mort, morte, dead + main hand; F. main-morte. See Mortal, and Manual.] (Law) Possession of lands or tenements in, or conveyance to, dead hands, or hands that cannot alienate. [1913 Webster]
Note: The term was originally applied to conveyance of land made to ecclesiastical bodies; afterward to conveyance made to any corporate body. --Burrill. [1913 Webster]

From: GCIDE

Mortification \Mor`ti*fi*ca"tion\, n. [F., fr. L. mortificatio a killing. See Mortify.]
1. The act of mortifying, or the condition of being mortified; especially: (a) (Med.) The death of one part of an animal body, while the rest continues to live; loss of vitality in some part of a living animal; gangrene. --Dunglison. (b) (Alchem. & Old Chem.) Destruction of active qualities; neutralization. [Obs.] --Bacon. (c) Subjection of the passions and appetites, by penance, abstinence, or painful severities inflicted on the body. [1913 Webster]
The mortification of our lusts has something in it that is troublesome, yet nothing that is unreasonable. --Tillotson. [1913 Webster]
2. Deep humiliation or shame, from a loss of pride; painful embarassment, usually arising from exposure of a mistake; chagrin; vexation. [1913 Webster +PJC]
3. That which mortifies; the cause of humiliation, chagrin, or vexation. [1913 Webster]
It is one of the vexatious mortifications of a studious man to have his thoughts discovered by a tedious visit. --L'Estrange. [1913 Webster]
4. (Scots Law) A gift to some charitable or religious institution; -- nearly synonymous with mortmain. [1913 Webster]
Syn: Chagrin; vexation; shame. See Chagrin. [1913 Webster]