Homage
/ˈhɒm.ɪdʒ/noun
Respect or tribute shown to someone, especially a lord, ruler, or admired person.
Did you know?In medieval feudal law, homage was a formal oath of submission and loyalty, making the word less about admiration and more about binding yourself to someone’s authority.
Etymological Timeline
Late Latin
Latin
hominaticum
“service owed by a man as a vassal”
Old French
Old French
homage
“a vassal’s declaration of fealty to a lord”
Middle English
English
homage
“feudal allegiance or loyal service”
Modern English
English
homage
“respectful tribute or acknowledgment”