How to Pronounce "serfs"

word

ˈsɝfs

SURFS

sˈɜːfs

SURFS

Definition

Serfs were people in medieval Europe who were legally bound to work on a lord's land and could not leave without permission. They were part of the feudal system and had very few rights.

IPA Transcription

American English

ˈsɝfs

British English

sˈɜːfs

Simplified Pronunciation

SURFS

Listen in Context

In medieval times, many peasants were serfs who worked on the lord's land.

The serfs could not leave the village without the lord's permission.

Most serfs lived very simple lives with little freedom.

Unlike slaves, serfs were tied to the land but weren't bought or sold individually.