verb
engross
To prepare a document in its final legal form.
The clerk engrosses the deed before the parties sign it.
Etymology
The older verb concerns writing a document out formally. Engrossing produces the completed legal text ready for its authoritative use, rather than a working draft.
More examples
- The attorney engrossed the agreement after both sides approved the revisions.
- The legislative clerk is engrossing the bill with its adopted amendments.
- Please engross the lease and send it to us for signature.
Forms
engross · engrosses · engrossed · engrossing
engrossment noun — Preparation of a final legal document.
Similar words
- finalize
- Completes a document but does not specifically imply legal preparation.
- transcribe
- Copies existing text without necessarily preparing its final legal form.