Main Entry: feu·dal·ism

Pronunciation: \ˈfyü-də-ˌli-zəm\

Function: noun

Date: circa 1818

1 : the system of political organization prevailing in Europe from the 9th to about the 15th centuries having as its basis the relation of lord to vassal with all land held in fee and as chief characteristics homage, the service of tenants under arms and in court, wardship, and forfeiture
2 : any of various political or social systems similar to medieval feudalism

— feu·dal·ist \-də-list\ noun

— feu·dal·is·tic \ˌfyü-d^əl-ˈis-tik\ adjective