Declinatory \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.