An abridgment

AN ABRIDGMENT. An epitome or compendium of another and larger work, whereinthe principal ideas of the larger work are summarily contained. When fairlymade, it may justly be deemed, within the meaning of the law, a new work,the publication of which will not infringe the copyright of the workabridged. An injunction, however, will be granted against a mere colorableabridgment. 2 Atk. 143; 1 Bro. C. C. 451; 5 Ves. 709; Lofft's R. 775; Ambl.403; 5 Ves. 709.; 1 Story, R. 11. See Quotation.
2. Abridgments of the Law or Digests of Adjudged Cases, serve the veryuseful purpose of an index to the cases abridged, 5 Co. Rep. 25. Lord Cokesays they are most profitable to those who make them. Co. Lit. in preface tothe table at the end of the work. With few exceptions, they are not entitledto be considered authoritative. 2 Wils. R. 1, 2; 1 Burr. Rep. 364; 1 Bl.Rep. 101; 3 T. R. 64, 241. See North American Review, July, 1826, pp. 8, 13,for an account of the principal abridgments.