take the Fifth

verb

1. a : to obtain control, custody, or possession of often by assertive or intentional means

   b : to claim or exercise as an option or right take depreciation

2. a : to undertake the duties of take office

   b : to bind oneself by take an oath

3. : to get in writing

4. a : to accept the tender of (as a promise)

   b : to accept (as an oath, affidavit, or deposition) in a legal capacity (as by administering or witnessing)

5. a : to set in motion take an appeal

   b : to claim or exercise as an option or right take depreciation

6. : to put or set forth take an exception

   : to obtain ownership or possession of property take free of a security interest; specifically : to receive the title to an estate take as an heir : to receive the title to an estate take as an heir