n. A partition or distribution, especially of slaves.
n. An assessment of taxes.
the GNU version of the Collaborative International Dictionary of English
n. A partition or distribution, especially of slaves; also, an assessment of taxes.
The Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia
n. A partition or division; also, an assessment or allotment.
n. In Spanish America, the distribution of certain sections of the country, including the native inhabitants (as peons), made by the early conquerors among their comrades and followers.
Word Usage
"This experience launched Las Casas on his lifelong crusade against mistreatment of Indians, as exemplified by two institutions known as the encomienda and the repartimiento."