frankpledge

noun

frank·​pledge ˈfraŋk-ˌplej How to pronounce frankpledge (audio)
: an Anglo-Saxon system under which each adult male member of a tithing was responsible for the good conduct of the others
also : the member himself or the tithing

Word History

Etymology

Middle English frankeplegge, from Anglo-French francplege (probably translation of Middle English friborg peace pledge), from franc free + plege pledge

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of frankpledge was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near frankpledge

Cite this Entry

“Frankpledge.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frankpledge. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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