1
: a prefixed note of comment or explanation
2
: a note prefixed to the report of a decided legal case

Examples of headnote in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Editor's Note: This recipe was developed by Nicole Hopper; the headnote was written by Kimberly Holland. Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 12 Apr. 2025 Editor's Note: This recipe was developed by Nicole Hopper; the headnote was written by Alana Al-Hatlani. Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 3 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of headnote was in 1833

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Cite this Entry

“Headnote.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/headnote. Accessed 18 Apr. 2025.

Legal Definition

: a summary prefixed to the report of a decided legal case stating the principles or rulings of the decision and usually the main facts of the case
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