noun
definition
A document issued by some authority, creating a public or private institution, and defining its purposes and privileges.
definition
A similar document conferring rights and privileges on a person, corporation etc.
definition
A contract for the commercial leasing of a vessel, or space on a vessel.
definition
The temporary hiring or leasing of a vehicle.
definition
A deed (legal contract).
definition
A special privilege, immunity, or exemption.
definition
(in a noun phrase with another noun which is either an agent or action) a provision whose unintended consequence would be to encourage an undesirable activity
example
2005 November 30, Stephen Foley "The market where 'caveat emptor' has become a charter for fraud" The Independent, London