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Thane Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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thane

[ฮธeษชn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

historical title

A 'thane' was a noble title in medieval Scotland, denoting a man who held land granted by the king or by a lord of a higher rank. The role of a thane involved both governance and military responsibilities, and they were often responsible for protecting their territory and the interests of their lord.

Synonyms

Landowner, baron, lord, noble.

Examples of usage

  • The thane supported the king in battle.
  • Every thane had to swear loyalty to the sovereign.
  • The title of thane was often hereditary.
  • The king rewarded the bravest warriors with the title of thane.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'thane'

The word 'thane' originates from Old English 'รพane', which itself is derived from the Proto-Germanic '*รพanaz' meaning 'servant' or 'attendant'. Its usage can be traced back to the time when kings and lords bestowed land and titles to their most trusted followers in return for loyalty and military service. Over time, the meaning of 'thane' evolved to denote a specific title of nobility in Scotland, particularly during the medieval period. In Scottish history, thanes played a crucial role in the feudal system, acting as local rulers who governed territories on behalf of the king. This term is also famously known due to Shakespeare's 'Macbeth', where the protagonist is referred to as 'Thane of Cawdor'. The legacy of the term continues into modern usage, often embodying themes of loyalty, nobility, and feudal governance.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,387 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.