rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryvassalDependent subject
noun

vassal

VAS-ul/ˈvæsl/

A person or state subject to a more powerful ruler or authority.

The vassal pledges loyalty with joined hands before the lord.

A medieval vassal pledging loyalty with hands joined before a lord in a modest stone hall, European historical dress.
Etymology
vassalLatinmanservant, retainer

Vassallus meant a manservant or retainer. The service relationship became the feudal role of a tenant pledging loyalty to a lord, underlying the broader sense of a subordinate bound to a superior.

In context

Storytime Haven101:43
he made himself vassal to the Abbey and held his land from it.
Sir Nigel ⚔️🌟 | A Tale of Chivalry and Adventure | Arthur Conan Doyle

More examples

  • The emperor treats neighboring states as vassals.
  • As a vassal state, the country cannot conduct its own foreign policy.
  • The governor resents being treated as a vassal of the president.

Forms

vassal · vassals

vassalage noun — The condition of being a vassal.

Similar words

subject
Subject emphasizes allegiance to a ruler rather than dependence.
subordinate
Subordinate applies broadly to someone of lower rank or authority.