vassalage

[ vas-uh-lij ]

noun

1. the state or condition of a vassal.
2. homage or service required of a vassal.
3. a territory held by a vassal.
4. vassals collectively.
5. dependence, subjection, or servitude.

ˈvassalage

/ ˈvæsəlɪdʒ /

noun

1. esp in feudal society
   1. the condition of being a vassal or the obligations to which a vassal was liable
   2. the relationship between a vassal and his lord
2. subjection, servitude, or dependence in general
3. rare.
   vassals collectively

Other Words From

• sub·vassal·age noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of vassalage¹

1275–1325; Middle English < Middle French; vassal, -age

Example Sentences

While some Black Americans used the word “feudal,” others used related terms harkening back to the medieval world, including “vassalage,” “serfdom” and “Dark Age.”

From Salon

I was a discord in Gateshead Hall: I was like nobody there; I had nothing in harmony with Mrs. Reed or her children, or her chosen vassalage.

From Literature

"He would add," Madison wrote, "that domestic slavery is the most prominent feature in the aristocratic countenance of the proposed Constitution. The vassalage of the poor has ever been the favorite offspring of aristocracy."

From Salon

As Johnson would say, it will be vassalage.

From The Guardian

Mr Gill said the prime minister had voted twice against Mrs May's deal and Mr Johnson had called that agreement "vassalage".

From BBC

Related Words

• bondage
• confinement
• custody
• imprisonment
• incarceration
• slavery