Pronunciation: [mˈɜːt͡ʃɪt] (IPA) 
Merchet is a medieval term used to describe a fee paid to a lord on the marriage of a tenant's daughter. The spelling of this word may be confusing, but it follows the phonetic transcription of "/ˈmɜː(r)tʃɪt/." The "e" in the middle is pronounced as an "uh" sound and the "ch" is pronounced as a "tʃ" sound. The spelling of Merchet may seem odd, but it is an important historical term that reflects the complexities of medieval society.
Merchet was a medieval feudal term used to refer to a payment or fee made by a tenant to their lord upon the marriage of their daughter or the transfer of their property. It was a form of customary due or tribute paid to the lord as a right of consent and jurisdiction over the tenant's actions.
The term originated from the Old French word "merchet" or "marche," which meant a certain market or trading place. In this context, it denoted a symbol of the market value or worth of a daughter or property being transferred. The payment was intended as a recognition of the lord's authority, granting them the power to approve or disapprove of marriages or property transfers within their domain.
Merchet was often enforced as a means for the lord to control and regulate the actions of their tenants and to ensure their own financial gain. The amount of the payment varied depending on local customs and the lord's status, but it was typically a sum of money, goods, or even livestock.
Over time, mercet evolved into a form of customary law across medieval Europe and was an integral part of the feudal system. It eventually fell out of use as feudalism declined and societies shifted towards a more centralized legal system.
In modern times, the term mercet is primarily used in historical and legal contexts to describe the feudal practice of levying a fee or tribute upon marriage or the transfer of property within feudal societies.
The word "merchet" derives from Middle English and has its roots in Old English. It is derived from the Old English word "myrgð", which means "marriage" or "bride-price". Over time, the word evolved and started to refer specifically to a fine or fee paid to the lord of the manor by a villein for the privilege of allowing his daughter to marry outside of the manor. In essence, merchet was a form of payment made to the lord for granting permission for marriages.
