Serfs Meaning in English
word · lemma: serf
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.
Usage & Nuances
The term 'serfs' is specific to the medieval feudal system in Europe and is mainly used in historical context. Do not confuse with 'slaves'—serfs were not owned but were still tied to the land. Usually used in plural for historical groups.
Example Sentences
In medieval times, many peasants were serfs who worked on the lord's land.
basic
The serfs could not leave the village without the lord's permission.
basic
Most serfs lived very simple lives with little freedom.
basic
Unlike slaves, serfs were tied to the land but weren't bought or sold individually.
natural
The lives of serfs depended heavily on their lord's rules and kindness.
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Many history books describe how serfs formed the majority of the population during the feudal era.
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