Vassalage
/ˈvæs.əl.ɪdʒ/noun
The state or condition of being a vassal; feudal subordination or service.
Did you know?Vassalage comes from the same ancient root as words for a servant or even a dependent household member, showing how feudal power was built on personal bonds, not just law.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*upo
“under, below”
Late Latin
Latin
vassallus
“a servant, retainer, or household dependent”
Old French
Old French
vassal
“a feudal tenant owing service to a lord”
Middle English
English
vassalage
“the condition or status of a vassal”
Modern English
English
vassalage
“the state of being subject to a lord or ruler”