Pronunciation: [vˈasalɪd͡ʒ] (IPA) 
The word "vassalage" is spelled with two S's and two A's. The first A is pronounced as /æ/ and the second A as /ɑː/. The letter G is pronounced as a "hard G" sound, /ɡ/. The final E is silent, and the word is stressed on the second syllable, with the primary stress on the letter A. "Vassalage" refers to a relationship in which one person or entity is subordinate to another, often used in feudal or political contexts.
Vassalage refers to the feudal relationship established between a lord and a vassal in medieval Europe. It denotes a legal and social bond in which a vassal pledges loyalty, military service, and other forms of support to a lord in exchange for protection and the granting of land or other privileges. This term originated from the Latin word "vassalus," meaning servant or slave.
In this hierarchical system, the vassal owed the lord various obligations, including providing military assistance, monetary payment, and advice when needed. In return, the vassal received land or income from the lord's estate, known as a fief or feud. This arrangement granted the vassal certain rights and privileges within the feudal society.
Vassalage was a central aspect of feudalism and provided a framework for the social, economic, and political organization of medieval Europe. It created a network of mutual obligations and served as a means of consolidating and maintaining power. The system extended beyond mere land tenure and fostered complex relationships of loyalty, dependence, and hierarchy.
Although vassalage gradually declined with the development of centralized states and the rise of more formalized systems of government, its influence persisted for centuries, shaping medieval society and leaving a lasting impact on the historical and cultural legacy of Europe.
State of being a vassal or feudatory; political servitude or dependence.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "vassalage" originated from Middle French "vassalage" and earlier Old French "vasselage". Its root lies in the Latin word "vassus", which referred to a servant, laborer, or tenant. The Latin term traces back further to the Celtic word "wasso", meaning "servant" or "young man". Vassalage has its origins in the feudal system of medieval Europe, where a vassal pledged loyalty and service to a lord or monarch in exchange for protection and land. This concept was prevalent in the Middle Ages and thus influenced the development of the word.
