vassalage

[vas-uh-lij]

noun

1. the state or condition of a vassal.

2. homage or service required of a vassal.

3. a territory held by a vassal.

4. vassals collectively.

5. dependence, subjection, or servitude.

ˈvassalage

/ ˈvæsəlɪdʒ /

noun

1. 1. the condition of being a vassal or the obligations to which a vassal was liable

   2. the relationship between a vassal and his lord

2. subjection, servitude, or dependence in general

3. rare,  vassals collectively

Other Word Forms

• subvassalage noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of ˈvassalage¹

1275–1325; Middle English < Middle French; vassal, -age

Related Words

• bondage 
• confinement 
• custody 
• imprisonment 
• incarceration 
• slavery