prae·cip·u·um \prēˈsipyəwəm\noun (pluralpraecip·ua \-yəwə\) Etymology: Latin, from neuter of praecipuus taken beforehand, from praecipere to take beforehand — more at precept 1.Roman law: a portion received from an inheritance before general distribution 2.Scots law: an additional share or bonus (as received by the eldest of several female heirs portioners)