Definition of "dative"

(grammar) Noting the case of a noun which expresses the remoter or indirect object, generally indicated in English by to or for with the objective.  examples

(obsolete, law) In one’s gift; capable of being disposed of at will and pleasure, as an office or other privilege.

(obsolete, law) Removable, as distinguished from perpetual; — said of an officer.

(obsolete, law) Given by a judge, as distinguished from being cast upon a party by the law itself.

(sciences) Formed by two electrons contributed by one atom; see dative bond.  examples

(mathematics, obsolete) Given in advance; not needed to be calculated.

(grammar) The dative case.  examples

(grammar) A word inflected in the dative case.  examples