The tenth part of the increase arising from the profits of land and stock, allotted to the clergy for their support, as in England, or devoted to religious or charitable uses. Almost all the tithes of England and Wales are commuted by law into rent charges. Concept originates in the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament).
A contribution to one's religious community or congregation of worship.
(transitive) To spareonlyeverytenthperson, killing the rest (usually in relation to the sacking of the episcopal seat at Canterbury by the pagan Danes in 1011).