Distribution

(dis-tre-bū'shun.) [From L. distribuo, & giving away.] Generally, a giving away or dividing among in parts or portions; as the distribution of prize money among soldiers, or the D. of plants into genera and species, and so on.-(Arch.) The sectional disposition of the several parts of a building, according to some plan laid down, or to the general rules of the art. (Irint.) The throwing the types or letters, one by one, into those departments of the cases to which they belong: -it is the reverse of composition, q. v.-(Log.) Aterm is said to undergo distribution in a proposition when it is employed in its full extent, so as to comprise everything to which the term can be applied.-(Law.) That division of an intestate's estate among his next heirs which is judicially authorized to take place after deducting therefrom all debts, costs, and charges. [s. 293]