\De*clin"a*to*ry\ (?; 277), a. [LL. declinatorius,
fr. L. declinare: cf. F. d['e]clinatoire.]
Containing or involving a declination or refusal, as of
submission to a charge or sentence. --Blackstone.
{Declinatory plea} (O. Eng. Law), the plea of sanctuary or of
   benefit of clergy, before trial or conviction; -- now
   abolished.