Duhaime's Law Dictionary Se Defendendo Definition: Latin: self-defence. Related Terms: Deadly Force, Stand Your Ground, Self-Defence A species of excusable homicide; the killing of another human being in self-defense. Traditionally, the common law set up three varieties of homicide: justifiable, excusable and felonious. Deaths which result from incidents of self-defense are excusable homicides. The other type of excusable homicide per infortunium or by mis-adventure. Categories & Topics: Dictionary of Latin Law Terms Duhaime's Ancient Common Law Dictionary Duhaime's Criminal Law Dictionary Always looking up definitions? Save time with our search provider (modern browsers only) If you find an error or omission in Duhaime's Law Dictionary, or if you have suggestion for a legal term, we'd love to hear from you!