vassal
nounmasculineformal/vɐˈsalu/medium
vas·sa·lo
Definition
In the feudal system, a man who held land from a superior lord and pledged loyalty and service in return.
The vassal swore an oath of fealty to his lord.
The king's vassals were obliged to provide military support.
Common collocations
feudal vassalvassal lordoath of a vassal
Etymology
Do céltico '*vassos' ('servo'), pelo latim medieval 'vassallus'.