Feudal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฐ
feudal
[หfjuหdษl ]
Definitions
system
Relating to or resembling the system of feudalism, where a lord grants land to vassals in exchange for loyalty and service.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| feudal |
This term refers to a historical system of land ownership and duties, especially in medieval Europe. It is commonly used when describing the social and economic structures of that time period.
|
| feudalistic |
This adjective is often used to describe systems or structures in modern contexts that resemble the historical feudal system. It can carry a slightly negative connotation, suggesting outdated or oppressive practices.
|
| feudatory |
This term refers to someone who is under the protection and obligations of a feudal lord. It is a more specific and less commonly used term, typically seen in historical or academic contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- Feudal societies were characterized by a strict hierarchy of land ownership.
- The feudal system was prevalent in medieval Europe.
dispute
A prolonged and bitter quarrel or dispute between two parties or families, often over land or power.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| feudal |
This word is best used when referring to the social, economic, and political systems of the Middle Ages, where lords owned land and vassals worked it in return for protection.
|
| dispute |
This word is apt for less intense disagreements or arguments, often over specific issues or points. It is often used in formal contexts such as legal or business settings.
|
| conflict |
Use this word to describe a serious disagreement, struggle, or fight, which could be between individuals, groups, or countries. It has a broader application than 'dispute' and can include warfare or other intense forms of disagreement.
|
Examples of usage
- The feud between the two families lasted for generations.
- There was a feudal over who had the right to inherit the throne.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term originated from the Latin word 'feudum', which means 'fief' or 'land held in return for service'.
- Feudal systems were prominent in medieval Europe, especially during the 9th to 15th centuries.
- The decline of feudalism began with the rise of centralized monarchies and the increase in trade and commerce.
Political Structure
- Feudal societies were hierarchically organized, with kings at the top, followed by nobles, knights, and peasants.
- Lords (nobles) had power over specific territories, granting land to vassals (knights) in exchange for military service.
- The concept of loyalty was crucial, as vassals pledged allegiance to their lords, creating a personal bond.
Social Classes
- This system created distinct social classes, with the majority being peasants who worked the land but had limited rights.
- Knights were often seen as the elite warriors responsible for protecting the lordโs land, often receiving land in return.
- Women in feudal societies typically worked alongside men but had limited rights and roles compared to their male counterparts.
Economics
- The economy was largely agrarian, meaning most wealth came from farming and land production.
- Serfs, or bound peasants, worked the land, and their labor was crucial for the lordโs wealth, often working without pay.
- Trade and markets began to develop, altering the feudal economy as towns emerged and the need for goods increased.
Cultural Influence
- Feudalism inspired many cultural aspects, including chivalry, which dictated the code of conduct for knights.
- The system influenced literature, leading to tales of brave knights rescuing damsels and quests for honor.
- Artwork from the Middle Ages often depicted scenes of feudal life, showcasing the grandeur of castles and the struggles of peasantry.
Origin of 'feudal'
The word 'feudal' is derived from the Latin word 'feudum', meaning 'fief' or 'estate'. Feudalism as a system originated in medieval Europe, where land was granted in exchange for loyalty and service. The feudal system was characterized by a hierarchical structure of lords, vassals, and serfs, with land being the primary source of wealth and power. Feudal societies were prevalent during the Middle Ages but eventually declined with the rise of centralized monarchies.