Garter - Definition - Law Dictionary Home Dictionary Definition garter

Definition :

Garter. The Order of the Garter, constituted by King Edward III. About 1348, has since June 28, 1831, consisted of the Sovereign and twenty-five Knight Companions, such lineal descendants of King George I. as may have been elected, and of Sovereigns and extra Knights who have been admitted by special statutes. The Prince of Wales is a constituent part of the original institution, The Habit and Ensigns of the Order comprise (inter alia) (1) a garter of dark blue velvet edged with gold bearing the motto Honi soit qui mal y pense, in gold letters with buckle and pendant of gold richly chased. It is worn on the left leg, below the knee; (2) a collar of gold; (3) the Lesser George or Badge; and (4) a Star of eight points of silver. At death the Badge and Star are delivered up to His Majesty by the knight's nearest male relative, the Collar and Garter being returned to the Central Chancery. The Chappel of St. George, Windsor Castle, is the Chapel of the Order, Debrett's Peerage.