n. the type genus of the Desmodontidae, consisting of vampire bats.
Syn. -- genus Desmodus. [ WordNet 1.5 ]

‖n.; pl. Modi [ L. See Mode. ] (Old Law) 1. The arrangement of, or mode of expressing, the terms of a contract or conveyance. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. (Law) A qualification involving the idea of variation or departure from some general rule or form, in the way of either restriction or enlargement, according to the circumstances of the case, as in the will of a donor, an agreement between parties, and the like. Bracton. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Law) A fixed compensation or equivalent given instead of payment of tithes in kind, expressed in full by the phrase modus decimandi. Blackstone. [ 1913 Webster ]

They, from time immemorial, had paid a modus, or composition. Landor. [ 1913 Webster ]

‖ety>[ L. ], manner of operating. Often abbreviated to MO [ 1913 Webster ]

‖ [ L. ] Mode, or manner, of living; hence, a temporary arrangement of affairs until disputed matters can be settled. [ Webster 1913 Suppl. ]