term:

Quasi

quasi adj

[Latin, as if, as it were, from quam as + si if]
: having such a resemblance to another thing as to fall within its general category [a quasi corporation]
adv : in some significant sense or degree often used in combination [quasi-fiscal] see also quasi-judicial, quasi-legislative
vt : to establish or make (title) secure by means of an action that produces a final determination of the respective rights of parties who are in dispute over property compare cloud on title

Source: Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of Law ©1996. Merriam-Webster, Incorporated. Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.