Estimais

Estimais is a term that historically referred to a period of time, typically a month or a year, during which accounts were settled or debts were paid. In some contexts, it also denoted the day or date on which such settlements were due. The origin of the word is likely Latin, related to "aestimare," meaning to estimate or value.

The practice of estimais was common in various mercantile and financial systems throughout history. Merchants and landowners would often set specific estimais dates to consolidate their financial obligations and receive payments. This provided a structured approach to financial management and facilitated trade. The specific duration of an estimais period could vary depending on local customs and the nature of the transactions involved. For example, an annual estimais might be used for longer-term contracts or property leases, while a monthly estimais could be more appropriate for recurring trade or wages.

In some older legal or administrative documents, the term estimais might be used in relation to taxation or rent collection. Understanding the concept of estimais is therefore important for interpreting historical financial records and understanding the economic practices of past societies. While the term itself is less commonly used in modern finance, the underlying principle of scheduled financial settlements remains a fundamental aspect of contemporary economic activity.