The word "diriment" is not one commonly used in everyday conversation, however, it refers to something that renders a marriage null and void. The pronunciation of the word is /daɪˈrɪmənt/ which is represented in IPA phonetic transcription. The 'd' and the 'i' in the word are pronounced as in 'die', followed by a short 'r' sound similar to that in 'racetrack'. The second syllable of the word has an 'i' pronounced as in 'bit'. The final syllable features a short 'e' sound, and the 'nt' is pronounced as in 'dent'.
The term "diriment" is an adjective derived from the Latin word "dirimens," which means "stopping" or "preventing." In the context of law and ethics, "diriment" refers to an essential condition or factor that invalidates or nullifies something, typically within the realm of marriage or a contractual agreement.
In the field of Canon Law, a diriment impediment is a specific circumstance that renders a marriage invalid, making it void from its inception. Such impediments may include a prior existing marriage, consanguinity (blood relatedness) beyond a certain degree, or lack of consent from one or both parties. These diriment impediments serve as legal grounds for annulment or dissolution of a marriage under specific circumstances.
Outside the realm of marriage, the term "diriment" can apply to various contexts. For instance, within contractual agreements, a diriment condition could be a specific provision that, if not met, would void the contract. It can also pertain to certain actions or events that nullify the validity of a legal or financial transaction.
In summary, "diriment" is an adjective used to describe a condition, provision, circumstance, or factor that invalidates or nullifies something. It signifies an essential factor that prevents the full legitimacy or validity of an agreement, marriage, or other legal-related matters.
The word "diriment" is derived from the Latin term "dirimentis", which comes from the verb "dirimere". In Latin, "dirimere" means "to separate" or "to break apart". This Latin verb is a combination of "dis" (meaning "apart") and "rimere" (meaning "to break" or "to open"). In the context of its usage, "diriment" typically refers to something that causes a separation or annulment, particularly in reference to impediments or faults that allow for the dissolution of a marriage.