*commendam*

n. [ LL. dare in commendam to give into trust. ] (Eng. Eccl. Law) A vacant living or benefice commended to a cleric (usually a bishop) who enjoyed the revenue until a pastor was provided. A living so held was said to be held in commendam. The practice was abolished by law in 1836. [ 1913 Webster ]

There was [ formerly ] some sense for commendams. Selden. [ 1913 Webster ]

Partnership in commendam. See under Partnership. [ 1913 Webster ]