Nuncupation (/nʌŋkjuːˈpeɪʃən/) refers to the act of making a verbal will. Despite being a word with Latin roots, it follows English spelling conventions. The "nun" in the beginning is pronounced like "nən" to avoid ambiguity with the word "nunk". The "c" is pronounced as "k" before the vowels "u" and "a". The "p" is pronounced as "p" and not as "b" because it comes before the vowel "a". Finally, the "-tion" ending is a common English suffix indicating a state or condition of being.
Nuncupation, a noun derived from the Latin word "nuncupatio", refers to the act or process of declaring or pronouncing something in a formal or public manner, particularly in a legal context. It involves making an oral or verbal statement to attest to the truth of a fact or to express one's intentions, often in the presence of witnesses or an authorized person, and typically without the need for a written document.
In legal terms, nuncupation primarily refers to the verbal declaration of a will or testamentary disposition, where the testator expresses their wishes for the distribution of their property or the appointment of guardians for their children after their death. This form of will execution is commonly recognized in certain jurisdictions, although it may be subject to specific formalities and requirements. Nuncupation may also extend to other legal declarations, such as the traditional exchange of vows in a wedding ceremony.
Outside of the legal realm, nuncupation can also encompass the act of making public announcements, pronouncing declarations, or verbally conveying important information in a formal setting. Furthermore, it may have implications in religious or ceremonial contexts, particularly when an individual verbally affirms their faith, takes vows, or recites oaths.
Overall, nuncupation entails the oral expression of legally binding statements or public declarations, often with the aim of establishing the veracity or validity of certain matters in the absence of a written record.
The word nuncupation derives from the Latin term nuncupatio, which comes from the verb nuncupare. Nuncupare combines the prefix nun- (meaning now or presently) with the verb cupare (meaning to proclaim or to declare). Thus, nuncupare signifies to declare at present or to proclaim publicly. This Latin term was adopted into Middle English as nuncupacioun around the 14th century, which eventually led to the modern form nuncupation.