In English law. Associations supported by subscrip-tion, for the relief and maintenance of the members, or their wives, children, relatives, and nominees, in sickness, infancy, advanced age, widowhood, etc. The statutes regulat-ing these societies were consolidated and amended by St. 38 & 39 Vlct. c. 60. wharton
Source: Black’s Law Dictionary 2nd Ed (1910)
