Feudalism
/fjˈudəˌlɪzəm/
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Definition
(noun) A social system based on personal ownership of resources and personal fealty between a suzerain (lord) and a vassal (subject). Defining characteristics are direct ownership of resources, personal loyalty, and a hierarchical social structure reinforced by religion.
Sentence Examples
She wrote a paper on feudalism.
Historians say the Black Death hastened the end of feudalism.
CEFR Practice Quiz
The rise of centralized monarchies eventually led to the decline of ____ in most parts of Europe.