pensionary

noun

pen·​sion·​ary ˈpen(t)-shə-ˌner-ē How to pronounce pensionary (audio)
plural pensionaries
: pensioner
especially : hireling
pensionary adjective

Word History

First Known Use

1536, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pensionary was in 1536

Rhymes for pensionary

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Browse Nearby Words

pensionado
pensionary
pensioner
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pensionary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pensionary. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about pensionary

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