SEIGNEUR Meaning and
Definition
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Seigneur is a noun that originated from the Middle French word "seignor" and ultimately from the Latin word "senior," meaning "elder" or "superior." The term primarily refers to a feudal lord, especially in medieval France, who held high authority and control over a specific territory or estate.
In feudal societies, a seigneur was a nobleman who owned vast lands and exercised some degree of control over the people living on his domain. The seigneur had various responsibilities, including administering justice, collecting taxes, and providing protection to those residing within his territory. Furthermore, he had the power to grant land to vassals in exchange for loyalty and military service.
The title of seigneur carried prestige and symbolized one's social status. It was often passed down through inheritance, allowing successive generations to maintain their position of power and influence.
Beyond its feudal connotations, the term "seigneur" is also used in a more general context to denote a person of great authority, wisdom, or influence. It can be applied to someone who exercises considerable control or leadership in a particular field, such as a business, politics, or academia.
Overall, seigneur encapsulates the idea of a lord or superior figure who possesses dominion, power, and control, whether within the feudal system or in a broader societal context.
Common Misspellings for SEIGNEUR
Etymology of SEIGNEUR
The word "seigneur" comes from the Old French term "seignor", which in turn evolved from the Latin word "senior" meaning "elder" or "older". In medieval times, a "seigneur" referred to a lord or a feudal lord, indicating a person who held a position of authority or control over a particular territory or domain. Over time, the term expanded to denote a noble title or a respectful form of address for a male landowner or feudal lord in French-speaking regions.
Idioms with the word SEIGNEUR
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droit de seigneur
The idiom "droit de seigneur" refers to a medieval custom or purported right in which a feudal lord had the privilege to sexually exploit the woman who was about to marry one of his vassals. It implies the notion of a lord's entitlement or domination over his subjects, particularly in matters of relationships or sexuality. However, it should be noted that historical debates persist regarding the actual existence and prevalence of the practice.
Similar spelling words for SEIGNEUR
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