Skifter

Skifter is a Danish term with several related meanings. As a verb form, skifter is the present tense of the verb skifte, meaning to change, switch, or replace. It is used in everyday speech to describe alterations, such as changing clothes, changing plans, or altering opinions. In some contexts, skifte also denotes transferring or reassigning ownership, though more specialized terms are often used in legal or commercial language.

In a legal context, skifte has a distinct technical meaning. Skifte refers to the settlement of a deceased person’s estate, and the process is carried out under the supervision of the skifteret, the Danish probate court. The estate itself is referred to as boet. Skifte involves inventorying assets and debts, paying obligations, and distributing the remaining assets to heirs or legatees. The proceedings may culminate in a final settlement or continue as needed.

Skifter is also a surname found in Danish-speaking regions and among people of Danish descent. It is used independently of the verb’s meaning and may be borne by individuals in various professions.

Etymology: The word derives from the Danish verb skifte and shares roots with other Germanic languages, reflecting the broader semantic fields of change and transfer.