Feudalism

/ˈfjuːdəlɪzəm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A social system that existed in medieval Europe, in which society was structured around relationships derived from the holding of land in exchange for service or labor.

Feudalism created a rigid class structure, with lords at the top and peasants at the bottom.

A political and economic system in which a ruler grants land to nobles in exchange for loyalty and military service.

The feudalism of the Middle Ages facilitated the control of land and resources by a small class of nobles.

A system or approach resembling the feudal system, characterized by a hierarchical organization and a rigid structure of dependency.

In some modern businesses, a form of feudalism may exist where lower-tier employees depend heavily on the decisions of upper management.

Etymology

Derived from the French 'féodalisme', which comes from 'fief', meaning 'feudal estate'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

feudal system

A historical system of land ownership and governance in medieval Europe.

lord and vassal

Refers to the relationship in feudalism where a lord grants land to a vassal in exchange for loyalty and service.

Related Words

serf

A laborer bound under the feudal system to work on his lord's estate.

fief

An estate of land, especially one held on condition of feudal service.

Slang Meanings

Old school power dynamics

The way that company operates feels like a feudalism, with the boss sitting on top.

Pay to play

In that organization, it's all about feudalism; you have to curry favor with the higher-ups to get anywhere.