Correct spelling for the English word "domesday survey" is [dˈə͡ʊmsde͡ɪ sˈɜːve͡ɪ], [dˈəʊmsdeɪ sˈɜːveɪ], [d_ˈəʊ_m_s_d_eɪ s_ˈɜː_v_eɪ] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Domesday Survey refers to a comprehensive survey conducted in England during the 11th century. The word "domesday" is an anglicized version of the Old English term "domes dæg," which translates to "doom's day" or "day of judgment," effectively emphasizing the finality and authority of the survey's findings.
The Domesday Survey was commissioned by William the Conqueror, the first Norman King of England, in the year 1085. Its primary purpose was to establish a comprehensive record of land ownership and resources throughout the kingdom. The survey was completed by a team of surveyors who were sent to every county in England, recording details about each property, including its size, location, value, and the name of the owner, as well as any tenants or resources associated with it. The survey's report forms the basis of the Domesday Book, a highly detailed and extensive record of England's landholding system.
The Domesday Survey played a pivotal role in medieval English society, serving as a vital resource for taxation, land redistribution, and military purposes. Its accuracy and comprehensiveness set it apart from other surveys of the time, and it stands as a unique historical account of landownership in medieval England. The Domesday Book's significance transcends its initial purpose, making it a valuable resource for scholars of history, sociology, economics, and geography, providing insights into the social, economic, and political landscape of medieval England.
The word "Domesday" comes from the Old English term "dōmes dæg", which translates to "Day of Judgment". It references the idea that the Domesday survey was a comprehensive and final evaluation of English lands and property. The survey was ordered by William the Conqueror, the Norman king of England, in 1085-1086. The term "survey" simply refers to the process of gathering information and taking an inventory.