n. 1. The remainder of something after removal of parts or a part. 2. a. Matter remaining after completion of an abstractive chemical or physical process, such as evaporation, combustion, distillation, or filtration; residuum. b. The part of a monomer or other chemical unit that has been incorporated into a polymer or large molecule. 3. Law The remainder of a testator's estate after all specific bequests and applicable debts and expenses have been disposed of. Also called residuum. [Middle English, from Old French residu, from Latin residuum, neuter of residuus, remaining, from residēre, to remain behind; see RESIDE.] re·sidu·ar·y (rĭ-zĭj-ĕr′ē) adj. |
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