Peasants Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐พ
peasants
[หpษzษnts ]
Definitions
rural life
Peasants are farmers or agricultural workers, especially in a traditional society where they are tied to the land they cultivate. They often live in small villages and work on farms to grow crops and raise livestock.
Synonyms
agricultural workers, country folk, farmers.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| peasants |
Used to describe traditional, often poor, rural workers who usually farm on a small scale. The term can have a negative or outdated connotation.
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| farmers |
Specifically refers to individuals who own or manage a farm, growing crops or raising animals. This term is neutral and widely used.
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| agricultural workers |
Refers to anyone working in the agriculture industry, including the planting, growing, and harvesting of crops. This term is more neutral and modern.
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| country folk |
A friendly, informal way to refer to people living in rural areas, often implying a simple and traditional lifestyle.
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Examples of usage
- The peasants in the village work hard in the fields to grow wheat and vegetables.
- Life for the peasants was difficult, with long hours of labor in the fields.
historical context
In medieval times, peasants were often considered the lowest social class, living in poverty and working under the control of feudal lords. They had limited rights and were subject to heavy taxation.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| peasants |
Typically used to describe rural farmers, especially in a historical context. It can have a neutral or slightly negative connotation, suggesting poverty or a low social status.
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| serfs |
Refers specifically to the agricultural laborers bound under the feudal system in medieval Europe. They were attached to the land they worked on and had very few rights.
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| peons |
Often used in a derogatory way to describe workers or laborers, especially in a colonial context. It suggests a lack of freedom or autonomy.
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| villagers |
A neutral term used to describe people living in a village. It does not necessarily imply any particular economic status.
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Examples of usage
- The peasants revolted against the oppressive rule of the feudal lords.
- Peasants often struggled to make ends meet and provide for their families.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'peasants'
The word 'peasants' originated from the Latin word 'paganus', which referred to a country dweller. In medieval Europe, peasants formed the backbone of the agricultural workforce and were crucial to the economy. They played a significant role in shaping the social structure of feudal societies.