SQUIREARCHY Meaning and
Definition
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Squirearchy is a term used to describe the social and political dominance of a group of squires, who are essentially members of the landed gentry. It refers to the system or rule of these influential squires within a particular region or area.
The concept of squirearchy emerged during the medieval times when squires were appointed as the personal attendants and assistants to knights. Over time, as feudalism developed, the role and power of these squires expanded. They became not only the personal attendants, but also the administrators of large estates, responsible for managing the lands and overseeing the agricultural activities.
In the context of squirearchy, these squires held considerable political and social power. They often dominated the local government and courts, exercising authority over the common people who resided in the surrounding areas. Their power was derived from their land ownership and the income generated from agricultural production.
Squirearchy often represented a hierarchical society, where the power and influence of squires were inherited. They belonged to the upper strata of society, and their wealth and status were preserved through generations. Their rule was characterized by a sense of paternalism, with the squires acting as protectors and providers for the local community.
However, with the decline of feudalism and the rise of industrialization, the influence of squirearchy has diminished over time. Today, the term is mostly used historically or metaphorically to describe a bygone era of local, landed elite dominance.
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A term applied to country gentlemen collectively.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SQUIREARCHY
- aquirearchy
- zquirearchy
- xquirearchy
- dquirearchy
- equirearchy
- wquirearchy
- s1uirearchy
- s2uirearchy
- swuirearchy
- sauirearchy
- sqyirearchy
- sqhirearchy
- sqjirearchy
- sqiirearchy
- sq8irearchy
- sq7irearchy
- squurearchy
- squjrearchy
- squkrearchy
Etymology of SQUIREARCHY
The word "squirearchy" is derived from two main components: "squire" and the suffix "-archy".
The term "squire" originated from the Old French word "esquier", meaning "knight's attendant" or "shield bearer". It eventually developed into Middle English as "squier", referring to a young man of noble birth training to become a knight or a gentleman attendant.
The suffix "-archy" comes from the Greek suffix "-arkhia", meaning "rule" or "government". It is frequently used in English to indicate a system of rule or governance by a specific group or class.
Therefore, "squirearchy" combines the word "squire", denoting a young nobleman or a knight's attendant, with the suffix "-archy", indicating a system of rule or government by this class of people. It refers to a social structure or system dominated or controlled by squires.
Similar spelling word for SQUIREARCHY
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