How Do You Spell DRUZHINA?

Pronunciation: [dɹˈʌʒɪnə] (IPA)

The word "druzhina" is a Slavic term that refers to a group of soldiers or warriors who fought for a leader. The word is pronounced [druˈʒina], with the stress on the second syllable. The spelling of the word is influenced by its Russian origin, where the letter "zh" represents the sound [ʒ], which is similar to the "s" in "measure." The "h" at the end of the word is silent, and the "u" is pronounced as a short "u" sound, like in "put."

DRUZHINA Meaning and Definition

1. Druzhina is a term originally derived from Old Slavic and has strong historical significance. It refers to a group or retinue of warriors and loyal companions who serve and protect a ruler or a leading figure in early medieval Slavic societies. The term is primarily associated with the Slavic nobility and was prevalent in the Kievan Rus and other neighboring Slavic territories during the 9th to the 13th century.

   Druzhina members were typically chosen from the most skilled and trusted warriors who swore oaths of loyalty to their leader. They not only served as a personal guard, but also played a crucial role in the administration and governance of their respective territories. Druzhina warriors were known for their bravery, discipline, and unwavering commitment to their ruler and the common goal of defending the lands.

   In addition to their military duties, druzhina members often received various privileges and rewards such as land grants, financial support, and influence within the ruling elite. They were seen as a symbol of prestige and power for their leader, and their presence demonstrated the ruler's authority and ability to assemble a strong and reliable following.

   The role of the druzhina gradually evolved over time, with changes in societal structures and political systems. However, the concept of a group of loyal warriors protecting and assisting a ruler remains an integral part of the historical legacy of many Slavic cultures.

Common Misspellings for DRUZHINA

• sruzhina
• xruzhina
• cruzhina
• fruzhina
• rruzhina
• eruzhina
• deuzhina
• dduzhina
• dfuzhina
• dtuzhina
• d5uzhina
• d4uzhina
• dryzhina
• drhzhina
• drjzhina
• drizhina
• dr8zhina
• dr7zhina
• druxhina
• drushina

Etymology of DRUZHINA

The word "druzhina" has its origin in Old East Slavic, which is an ancestor language of modern Russian, Ukrainian, and Belarusian. In Old East Slavic, the term "druzhina" (дрꙋжина) referred to a retinue or a group of warriors that served a prince or ruler.

The word comes from the Slavic root "druž-" (дрꙋж-), which means "friend" or "comrade". The suffix "-ina" (-ина) is used to form collective or plural nouns in Old East Slavic.

Over time, the meaning of "druzhina" extended to include not only a military retinue but also a more general group of loyal supporters or followers of a prince.