Meaning of the word vassal in English
What does vassal mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.
vassal
US /ˈvæs.əl/
UK /ˈvæs.əl/
Noun
1.
a person granted the use of land, in return for rendering homage, fealty, and military service or its equivalent to a lord or other superior; a feudal tenant
Example:
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The duke had many vassals who pledged loyalty to him.
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A king's power often depended on the strength and loyalty of his vassals.
2.
a person or state in a subservient or subordinate position
Example:
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The smaller nation became a vassal state to the powerful empire.
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He felt like a mere vassal, always having to obey his boss's every command.
Adjective
subservient or subordinate
Example:
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The smaller kingdom had a vassal relationship with the larger empire.
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His position was purely vassal, with no real power of his own.
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