Seignior: meaning, definitions and examples

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seignior

 

[ ˈseɪnjər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

historical title

Seignior refers to a feudal lord or a man of high rank and authority, particularly one who holds land granted by the king or another superior. This term was commonly used in medieval Europe, where seigniors had control over their territories and the people living on them. They often had legal and economic power over their vassals and were responsible for the governance and protection of their land. The title may also be used in the context of civil law systems, where it denotes a person with certain rights and privileges.

Synonyms

Landowner, baron, gentleman, lord.

Examples of usage

  • The seignior ruled over the entire estate.
  • Many seigniors collected taxes from the peasants.
  • In feudal times, being a seignior came with great responsibility.
  • The seignior's family held the title for generations.

Translations

Translations of the word "seignior" in other languages:

🇵🇹 senhor

🇮🇳 जमींदार

🇩🇪 Herr

🇮🇩 tuan

🇺🇦 пан

🇵🇱 pan

🇯🇵 領主

🇫🇷 seigneur

🇪🇸 señor

🇹🇷 efendi

🇰🇷 영주

🇸🇦 سيّد

🇨🇿 pán

🇸🇰 pán

🇨🇳 领主

🇸🇮 gospod

🇮🇸 herra

🇰🇿 иесі

🇬🇪 ბატონო

🇦🇿 sahib

🇲🇽 señor

Etymology

The word 'seignior' originates from the Old French term 'seigneur', which means 'lord' or 'master'. This term was derived from the Latin word 'senior', which means 'older' or 'elder'. In the feudal system of medieval Europe, the seignior held significant power and authority over lands and vassals, serving as a figure of governance and protection. The usage of the term can be traced back to the 11th century, and its significance evolved as the feudal system developed. Seigniors often had responsibilities, such as ensuring the well-being of their vassals and managing the land effectively. Over time, while the feudal system declined, the term continued to appear in various contexts, especially in legal frameworks and historical narratives.