Meaning of tort

The term ‘tort’ was introduced for the first time into the English law by Norman jurists. It is the French equivalent of the Roman law term ‘delict’ and English word ‘wrong’. The term ‘tort’ is derived from the Latin term tortum, which means to twist. Thus, it is used for an act or conduct which is twisted or tortious. It means a breach of some duty independent of contract giving rise to a civil cause of action and for which compensation is recoverable. The principle aim of the law of torts is compensation of the victim or his dependents.