Lorded Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘‘
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lorded

[lษ”rdษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

expressing authority

โ€˜Lordedโ€™ is the past tense of the verb โ€˜lord,โ€™ which means to act as a lord or to exercise dominion over others. It often implies a sense of superiority or privilege in one's attitude or behavior. The term can reflect an individual who boasts about their status or wealth while asserting power over others. The expression is commonly associated with a person who does not shy away from flaunting their elevated position.

Synonyms

control, dominate, reign.

Examples of usage

  • He lorded over his colleagues with his prestigious title.
  • She lords it over everyone in the office.
  • The politician lorded his influence to manipulate the voters.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • The feudal system established in medieval Europe relied heavily on lords and vassals, where lords provided land and protection in exchange for loyalty.
  • Many societies throughout history have had 'lords' as rulers, often leading to a class system where those in power had significant control over resources and people.

Literature

  • In Shakespeareโ€™s plays, characters often lord over others, highlighting themes of power struggle and authority.
  • The term appears frequently in fantasy literature, where it's common to see characters who called 'lords' have particular responsibilities or powers over kingdoms.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, the concept of 'lording' can be tied to leadership and domination, impacting social dynamics.
  • The portrayal of lords in films and TV shows often exaggerates their opulence and authority, influencing popular perceptions of nobility.

Psychology

  • People who 'lord' over others often exhibit behaviors associated with dominance and low empathy, affecting interpersonal relationships.
  • The act of lording can lead to resentment in social settings, as those being 'lorded' over may feel belittled or undermined.

Origin of 'lorded'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'lord' comes from the Old English 'hlaford,' which means 'loaf-keeper' or 'master of the house,' indicating authority.
  • In medieval times, a 'lord' was someone who owned large amounts of land and had power over the people living on it.

The term 'lord' originates from the Old English word 'hlaford,' which meant 'master of a household.' Its etymology is traced back to Germanic roots, specifically the Proto-Germanic term *hlaf-wardaz, which literally meant 'loaf-keeper' or 'one who provides bread.' As society evolved, the role of a 'lord' expanded to encompass those in positions of power and authority, particularly in feudal systems where landownership conferred status and control. The past tense โ€˜lordedโ€™ reflects the action taken by such individuals in previous contexts, underscoring a sense of dominance. Over centuries, the term has preserved its connotations of status, but it has also gained a figurative meaning relating to behavior and attitude in social hierarchies.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,554, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.