The correct spelling of the word "aver corn" is "oatmeal". Despite the phonetic similarity, the two words have different etymological roots. "Aver" comes from Middle English "averen", which means "to provide with oats". On the other hand, "corn" originally referred to any grain, not just maize. In IPA phonetic transcription, "aver corn" would be transcribed as /ˈoʊtmil/, with the long "o" sound followed by "t", "m", and "l", respectively.
Aver corn is a term that refers to the portion or share of corn that a tenant or farm laborer is bound to pay to their landlord as part of their rent or obligation towards the land. The term "aver" is derived from the Old English "aefre," meaning "ever," which emphasizes the regularity and consistency of this payment. The term "corn" in this context does not solely refer to the cereal grain but has a broader meaning, encompassing all types of cereal crops, including wheat, barley, oats, and rye.
In historical agricultural contexts, particularly in medieval England, the aver corn formed an essential part of economic and social structures. It was often a fixed and obligatory payment, usually made in kind rather than in money. The amount and type of corn owed could vary depending on the local customs or specific agreements between landlords and tenants.
The aver corn serves as a means through which the ownership and control of the land are expressed, as well as a source of sustenance for both landowners and workers. It contributed to the stability and perpetuity of the feudal system, ensuring the economic ties between the landlord and tenant remained intact. While the specific practices and prevalence of aver corn have diminished over time with changes in land ownership and agricultural systems, the concept remains significant for understanding historical agricultural relationships and land tenure arrangements.