Feudalism

//ˈfju.də.lɪ.zəm// noun

Definitions

Noun
  1. 1
    A social system based on personal ownership of resources and personal fealty between a suzerain (lord) and a vassal (subject). Defining characteristics are direct ownership of resources, personal loyalty, and a hierarchical social structure reinforced by religion. countable, uncountable

    "It was the beginning of a feudalism of the range, a barony rude enough, but a glorious one, albeit it began, like all feudalism, in large-handed theft and generous murdering."

  2. 2
    the social system that developed in Europe in the 8th century; vassals were protected by lords who they had to serve in war wordnet

Etymology

From feudal + -ism.

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