MUTILATION

mutilation,n.1. The act or an instance of rendering a document legally ineffective by subtracting or altering — but not completely destroying — an essential part through cutting, tearing, burning, or erasing. [Cases: Alteration of Instruments 1. C.J.S. Alteration of Instruments §§ 2–4.] 2.Criminal law. The act of cutting off or permanently damaging a body part, esp. an essential one. See MAYHEM. [Cases: Mayhem 1. C.J.S. Mayhem §§ 2–6.] — mutilate,vb. — mutilator,n.

[Blacks Law 8th]