Feudalism
Example: Feudalism shaped medieval society with its strict social hierarchy.
Definition
"Feudalism" is a historical social system where land was held by nobles in exchange for military service, and peasants worked the land for the nobles in return for protection. This system structured medieval society with a clear hierarchy and mutual obligations.
Etymology
The word "feudalism" comes from the Latin word 'feudum' or 'feodum,' meaning 'fief' or 'land held in exchange for service.' It was coined in the 17th century to describe the medieval European system of landholding and social organization, even though the exact nature of feudal relations varied widely.
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"Feudalism" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - History - (B2) - set 1", containing 210 commonly used words.
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