a. [ L. dativus appropriate to giving, fr. dare to give. See 2d Date. ] 1. (Gram.) Noting the case of a noun which expresses the remoter object, and is generally indicated in English by to or for with the objective. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. (Law) (a) In one's gift; capable of being disposed of at will and pleasure, as an office. (b) Removable, as distinguished from perpetual; -- said of an officer. (c) Given by a magistrate, as distinguished from being cast upon a party by the law. Burril. Bouvier. [ 1913 Webster ]
Dative executor, one appointed by the judge of probate, his office answering to that of an administrator. [ 1913 Webster ]