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
