YEOMANRY Meaning and
Definition
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Yeomanry refers to a social or occupational class in historical contexts, characterized by its land-owning status or occupation as freeholders, as well as by a certain level of wealth, independence, and social standing. The term originally emerged in medieval England and has since been used to describe similar social groups in other countries.
Historically, the yeomanry class comprised small-scale landowners who cultivated their own lands through labor, typically not relying on hired labor. They generally possessed a moderate amount of land, which provided them with a sufficient income to support themselves and their families, and were not dependent on the aristocracy or larger landowners for their livelihood. Many yeomen were skilled farmers, emphasizing self-sufficiency and often engaging in subsistence agriculture along with small-scale commercial production.
The yeomanry class held a highly respected position within society, occupying a middle ground between the lower agricultural laborers and the upper landed gentry. They often played important roles in local governance, contributing to the political and social stability of their communities. Their ownership of land also gave them a certain measure of political influence, providing them with the right to vote and participate in local decision-making processes.
In broader terms, the concept of yeomanry can also refer to the collective body or organization of yeomanry, typically understood as a volunteer cavalry force. This usage traces back to the development of the yeomanry regiments in the late 18th century in Britain, comprising citizens who were willing to serve as mounted infantrymen for the defense of their country.
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The collective body of yeomen or farmers; a name applied to embodied troops of horse who acted as volunteers for home service during the French war, chiefly at their own expense, and which consisted largely of farmers and country gentlemen-many yeomanry regiments still exist and meet at stated times for drill.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for YEOMANRY *
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Other Common Misspellings for YEOMANRY
Etymology of YEOMANRY
The word "yeomanry" has its origins in Middle English, particularly around the 14th century. Its etymology can be traced back to two elements: "yeoman" and the suffix "-ry".
The term "yeoman" originally referred to a freeholder or small landowner who worked his land himself, distinguishing him from a servant or tenant. The word "yeoman" is derived from the Old English "geong man", which means "young man" or "attendant".
The suffix "-ry" is used to form nouns denoting status, occupation, or collective bodies. It comes from the Old English suffix "-erie" or "-erie". Combinations such as "brewery", "bakery", and "shrubbery" are examples of this suffix at work.
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