\Ton*tine"\, n. [F., from It. tontina; -- so called from
its inventor, Tonti, an Italian, of the 17th century.]
An annuity, with the benefit of survivorship, or a loan
raised on life annuities with the benefit of survivorship.
Thus, an annuity is shared among a number, on the principle
that the share of each, at his death, is enjoyed by the
survivors, until at last the whole goes to the last survivor,
or to the last two or three, according to the terms on which
the money is advanced. Used also adjectively; as, tontine
insurance.
      Too many of the financiers by professions are apt to
      see nothing in revenue but banks, and circulations, and
      annuities on lives, and tontines, and perpetual rents,
      and all the small wares of the shop.     --Burke.