ejusdem generis

Of the same kind or class. The rule of construction that where general words are used in a contract after specific terms, they are to be confined to things of the same kind or class as the things previously specified. 17 Am J2d Contr § 270. The principle applicable in the construction of wills that where certain things are enumerated and a more general description is coupled with the enumeration, the general expressions are understood to cover only things of alike kind with those enumerated. 57 Am J1st Wills § 1130. The rule of statutory construction that where general words follow a designation of particular subjects or classes or persons, the meaning of the general words will ordinarily be presumed to be restricted by the particular designation, and to include only things or persons of the same kind, class or nature as those specifically enumerated, unless there is a clear manifestation of a contrary purpose. 50 Am J1st Stat § 249. The rules as stated above are not to be applied by rote against the obvious intent of the contracting parties, the testator, or, in the case of a statute, the legislature. If upon consideration of the whole subject matter of the contract or the law upon the subject in the case of a statute and the purposes sought to be effected, it is apparent that the intention was that the general words should go beyond the class specifically designated, the rule does not apply. Moreover, if the particular words exhaust the class, then the general words must have a meaning beyond the class, or be discarded altogether. Kansas City Southern Railway Co. v Wallace, 38 Okla 233, 132 P 908.