Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Dative \Da"tive\, a. [L. dativus appropriate to giving, fr. dare
   to give. See 2d {Date}.]
   1. (Gram.) Noting the case of a noun which expresses the
      remoter object, and is generally indicated in English by
      to or for with the objective.

   2. (Law)
      (a) In one's gift; capable of being disposed of at will
          and pleasure, as an office.
      (b) Removable, as distinguished from perpetual; -- said of
          an officer.
      (c) Given by a magistrate, as distinguished from being
          cast upon a party by the law. --Burril. Bouvier.

   {Dative executor}, one appointed by the judge of probate, his
      office answering to that of an administrator.