Pronunciation: [lˈɔːdʃɪp] (IPA) 
The word "lordship" is spelled with seven letters and can be pronounced as /ˈlɔːdʃɪp/ using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable, "lor," is pronounced as a long "o" sound, followed by a soft "d" sound. The second syllable, "dship," is pronounced as a hard "sh" sound followed by a short "i" sound and a final "p" sound. "Lordship" is a title used to address a nobleman or someone with superior authority.
Lordship is a noun that refers to the state or quality of being a lord. It is derived from the Old English word "hlaford," which means "master" or "ruler." This term holds historical, social, and hierarchical connotations.
In a historical context, lordship signifies a person's high social status or noble rank. It refers to the authority, power, and ownership of land or property that a lord holds. Historically, the term "lordship" was associated with the feudal system, where lords were landowners with control over serfs or peasants living on their estates.
Socially, lordship represents the respect, deference, and privilege accorded to someone holding the title, similar to aristocracy or nobility. The prefix "Lord" is often used as a form of address when referring to members of the nobility or a higher-ranking individual.
Furthermore, lordship can be seen in a religious context, particularly within Christianity. It is a term used to address God, emphasizing divine authority and sovereignty. In this context, it emphasizes the belief that God has ultimate dominion and reigns over all creation.
Overall, lordship encapsulates power, authority, ownership, and social status. It connotes a position of superiority or mastery, whether applied historically, socially, or within a religious framework.
A title of address to a nobleman or high officer; the territory or jurisdiction of a lord; a manor; dominion; authority.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "lordship" has its origins in Old English. It is derived from the combination of two Old English words: "hlāford" and "scipe".
The term "hlāford", which directly translates to "lord" in Modern English, originally referred to a master or ruler. It is a compound word made up of "hlāf" meaning "loaf" or "bread", and "weard" meaning "keeper" or "guardian". This compound suggests that a "lord" was originally a "loaf-ward" or a person responsible for providing sustenance and protection.
The second element of "lordship", "scipe", is derived from the Old English word "sceap" meaning "creation" or "shape". It is a suffix that was commonly used to form abstract nouns indicating the state or quality of being something.
