fiefdom

[ feef-duhm ]

noun

1. the estate or domain of a feudal lord.
2. Informal. anything, as an organization or real estate, owned or controlled by one dominant person or group.

fiefdom

/ ˈfiːfdəm /

noun

1. (in feudal Europe) the property owned by a lord
2. an area over which a person or organization exerts authority or influence

Word History and Origins

Origin of fiefdom¹

First recorded in 1805–15; fief + -dom

Example Sentences

He is also clearly unqualified, Goldman said, a troubling fact that points to why he was chosen — to “get revenge on generals” and turn the state into his “own personal fiefdom.”

From Salon

Far from a well-oiled machine, the kitchen is a zone of dysfunction rife with petty squabbles and minor fiefdoms; it feels like a minor miracle that anything gets served to anyone at all.

From Los Angeles Times

He likened Ambriz’s job to that of a coxswain in crew, getting multiple participants, with their own “fiefdoms and lease lines,” rowing in the same direction.

From Los Angeles Times

At Harrods, his personal fiefdom, he created an intimidating atmosphere where a phalanx of bodyguards protected him around the clock and where surveillance equipment was installed in backroom offices.

From BBC

Sentencing, judge Patrick Lynch KC said McLaughlin abused the trust of his congregation and regarded the parish "as if it was a personal fiefdom".

From BBC