excuss

verb5

1. •
   To proceed against a principal debtor where there are either joint debtors or debtors and sureties.

   • The surety claimed relief in terms of the beneficium excussionis, thus obliging the creditor to excuss against the principal debtor.
2. •
   To seize and detain by law.
3. •
   (no longer used) To shake off.
4. •
   (no longer used) To examine (a document).
5. •
   (no longer used) To decipher.