in general, something contrary to truth, or not what it ought to be; thus we say a false action, false weights, false claim, &c.

False Action, if brought against one whereby he is cast into prison, and dies pending the suit, the law gives no remedy in this case, because the truth or falsehood of the matter cannot appear before it is tried; and if the plaintiff is barred, or non-suited at common law, regularly all the punishment is amercement.

False Imprisonment, is a trespass committed against a person, by arresting and imprisoning him without just cause, contrary to law; or where a man is unlawfully detained without legal process; and it is also used for a writ which is brought for this trespass. If a person be any way unlawfully detained, it is false imprisonment; and considerable damages are recoverable in those actions.

False Oath. See Perjury.

False Prophecy. See Prophecy.

False Quarter, or Quitter, in farriery. See Farriery, § 4.