feudatory

[ fyoo-duh-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee ]

noun

, plural feu·da·to·ries.

1. a person who holds lands by feudal tenure; a feudal vassal.
2. a fief or fee.

adjective

1. (of a kingdom or state) under the overlordship of another sovereign or state.
2. (of a feudal estate) holding or held by feudal tenure.

feudatory

/ -trɪ; ˈfjuːdətərɪ /

noun

1. a person holding a fief; vassal

adjective

1. relating to or characteristic of the relationship between lord and vassal
2. (esp of a kingdom) under the overlordship of another sovereign

Word History and Origins

Origin of feudatory¹

1585–95; < Medieval Latin feudā ( tor ) fief-holder ( feud ², -ator ) + -tory ¹, -tory ² )

Word History and Origins

Origin of feudatory¹

C16: from Medieval Latin feudātor

Example Sentences

Robert, Count of Rosellon, was one of the great feudatories of the crown of Aragon.

From Project Gutenberg

Henry once declined an offer of the Empire, made by the opponents of Frederick Barbarossa; and he steadily supported the young Philip Augustus against the intrigues of French feudatories.

From Project Gutenberg

The principal feudatory princes of the Indian empire are also styled “Highness.”

From Project Gutenberg

New decrees of Innocent’s prohibit both father and son from invading the State of a prince, a feudatory of the Holy See.

From Project Gutenberg

A feudatory or vassal; hence, one who holds a benefice and uses its proceeds.

From Project Gutenberg