AUBAINE (probably a corruption of alibi natus), an ancient right vested in the king of France, by virtue of which he claimed the inheritance of all foreigners that died within his dominions, notwithstanding any testamentary settlement made by the deceased. An ambassador was not subject to the right of aubaine; and the Swiss, Savoyards, Scots, and Portuguese, were also exempted. This ancient privilege was abolished in 1819.