fee simple – Ballantine’s Law Third Edition.
The largest estate in land known to the law and implying absolute dominion over the land; an estate of inheritance clear of any condition, limitation, or restriction, to particular heirs. 28 Am J2d Est § 10. An estate of lawfid inheritance or pure inheritance, “fee” standing for inheritance and “simple” for pure or lawfill. A legal or equitable estate in land constituting the largest estate and implying absolute dominion, although possibly subject to executory limitations or conditions subsequent. Hays Estate v Commissioner (CA5) 181 F2d 169, 39 ALR2d 453; Ford v Unity Church Society, 120 Mo 498, 25 SW 394.1
fee simple – Black’s Law Dictionary
In English law. A freehold estate of inheritance, absolute and unqualified. It stands at the head of estates as the highest in dignity and the most ample in extent; since every other kind of estate is derivable thereout, and mergeable therein. It may be enjoyed not only in land, but also In advowsons, commons, estovers, and other hereditaments, as well as in personalty, as an annuity or dignity, and also in an upper chamber, though the lower buildings and soil belong to another. Wharton.In American law. An absolute or fee- simple estate is one in which the owner is entitled to the entire property, with unconditional power of disposition during his life,and descending to his heirs and legal representatives upon his death intestate. CodeGa. 1882.
From Flora News 2008
16 page explanation, excellent information.
Fee-Simple-Explained (2) (pdf)