prem·ise P Pronunciation Key (pr m s)
n. also prem·iss (pr m s)
1. A proposition upon which an argument is based or from which a conclusion is drawn.
2. Logic.
a. One of the propositions in a deductive argument.
b. Either the major or the minor proposition of a syllogism, from which the conclusion is drawn.
3. premises Law. The preliminary or explanatory statements or facts of a document, as in a deed.
4. premises
a. Land and the buildings on it.
b. A building or part of a building.
http://dictionary.reference.com/search?q=premise