from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Subject-matter \Sub"ject-mat`ter\, n.
The matter or thought presented for consideration in some
statement or discussion; that which is made the object of
thought or study.
[1913 Webster]
As to the subject-matter, words are always to be
understood as having a regard thereto. --Blackstone.
[1913 Webster]
As science makes progress in any subject-matter, poetry
recedes from it. --J. H.
Newman.
[1913 Webster]
from
Bouvier's Law Dictionary, Revised 6th Ed (1856)
SUBJECT-MATTER. The cause, the object, the thing in dispute.
2. It is a fatal objection to the jurisdiction of the court when it has
not cognizance of the subject-matter of the action; as, if a cause
exclusively of admiralty jurisdiction were brought in a court of common law,
or a criminal proceeding in a court having jurisdiction of civil cases only.
10 Co. 68, 76 1 Ventr. 133; 8 Mass. 87; 12 Mass. 367. In such case, neither
a plea to the jurisdiction, nor any other plea would be required to oust the
court of jurisdiction. The cause might be dismissed upon motion, by the
court, ex officio.