Divine Lexicon

Term

feudalism

A European political system (9th–15th centuries) based on the relationship between lords and vassals, characterized by land held in fee, homage, and military or court service.

Filed underChurch History

Definition

The system of political organization prevailing in Europe from the 9th to about the 15th centuries having as its basis the relation of lord to vassal with all land held in fee and as chief characteristics homage, the service of tenants under arms and in court, wardship, and forfeiture.

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Sources

  1. 1.“Feudalism.” Merriam-Webster.com DictionaryLinkOriginal citation: "Feudalism." Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary. Accessed February 23, 2025. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/feudalism.

Last revised August 14, 2026