Definition of feudalism
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 (see vassal 1) with all land held in fee (see fee 1) and as chief characteristics homage, the service of tenants under arms and in court, wardship (see wardship 1), and forfeiture (see forfeiture 1)
2 : any of various political or social systems similar to medieval feudalism
Indulge Your Inner Word Nerd
Recent Examples of feudalism from the Web
-
Russia has been given many labels, from kleptocracy to Mafia state, but the most analytically helpful may be among the oldest: feudalism.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'feudalism'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
1773
First Known Use of feudalism
1773
Other History Terms
FEUDALISM Defined for English Language Learners
feudalism
playDefinition of feudalism for English Language Learners
-
: a social system that existed in Europe during the Middle Ages in which people worked and fought for nobles who gave them protection and the use of land in return
FEUDALISM Defined for Kids
feudalism
playDefinition of feudalism for Students
: a social system existing in medieval Europe in which people worked and fought for nobles who gave them protection and land in return
Learn More about feudalism
-
See words that rhyme with feudalism Spanish Central: Translation of feudalism Nglish: Translation of feudalism for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of feudalism for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about feudalism
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up feudalism? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!