Demesne: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old French term 'demeine', which means 'belonging to a lord'.
• Its roots can be traced back to the Latin word 'dominium', meaning 'ownership or control'.
• The transition from Old French to Middle English occurred around the 14th century, broadening its use.

Historical Significance

• In medieval Europe, a demesne was often tied to manorialism, where lords owned vast lands and peasants worked them.
• The concept of demesne reflects the social structure of feudalism, emphasizing land control and agricultural production.
• By the late medieval period, many emerging towns began to challenge the dominance of demesnes, leading to changes in land ownership.

Legal Context

• Today, the term is still used in legal documents concerning property and land use rights.
• In property law, demesne can refer to land that is retained by a landowner after an estate has been granted.
• Easements and rights associated with a demesne can impact agreements between property owners and neighboring landholders.

Cultural References

• The use of the term has appeared in literature, highlighting the struggles between landowners and tenants.
• In fantasy genres, demesnes can depict the estates of noble characters, often featuring magical or unusual qualities.
• Popular culture sometimes romanticizes the idea of demesnes, representing them as vast estates with lush gardens and secret passages.

Positioned at #20,828, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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• 20825 bulbous
• 20826 fearlessly
• 20827 foreboding
• 20828 demesne
• 20829 louse
• 20830 airing
• 20831 wailed
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