French translation of vassal is 
vassal

Meaning of "vassal" in English

A "vassal" is a term originating from the feudal system, historically referring to an individual who held land from a lord in return for military service or homage. This relationship was central to the structure of social hierarchy and governance in medieval Europe. A vassal pledged allegiance and service to a more powerful noble, who in turn provided protection and tenure over specific lands. In contemporary usage, the term can figuratively imply a subordinate or person in a position of servitude or dependency.

Meaning of "vassal" in French

In French, "vassal" also refers to a historical figure within the feudal system, signifying someone who pledged loyalty and service to a lord in exchange for land and protection. This term is rooted in the Middle Ages, describing the socio-political structure characteristic of that era. Much like in English, the term in French can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who is subordinate or in a relationship of dependency or allegiance to a more powerful figure or entity.

Pronunciation of "vassal" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈvæs.əl/

Pronunciation Variations: In English, "vassal" is commonly pronounced with emphasis on the first syllable. There is limited variation in its pronunciation across different English dialects, though slight differences in vowel sounds may occur between American and British English.

Pronunciation of "vassal" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /vasal/

Pronunciation Variations: In French, "vassal" is pronounced with the emphasis typically on the second syllable. The pronunciation remains quite consistent across different French-speaking regions, with minimal regional variations.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. The knight was a loyal vassal to the king. (Le chevalier était un vassal loyal du roi.)
2. During the medieval period, vassals played a crucial role in society. (Pendant la période médiévale, les vassaux jouaient un rôle crucial dans la société.)
3. A vassal was expected to provide military service. (Un vassal devait fournir un service militaire.)
4. The vassal received land in exchange for his loyalty. (Le vassal recevait des terres en échange de sa fidélité.)
5. Vassals would often gather at the lord’s court. (Les vassaux se réunissaient souvent à la cour du seigneur.)
6. The relationship between a lord and vassal was reciprocal. (La relation entre un seigneur et un vassal était réciproque.)
7. Some vassals became very powerful in their own right. (Certains vassaux devenaient très puissants par eux-mêmes.)
8. The system of vassalage was central to feudalism. (Le système de vassalité était central au féodalisme.)
9. A vassal had obligations to his liege lord. (Un vassal avait des obligations envers son seigneur.)
10. Many vassals aspired to become lords themselves. (Beaucoup de vassaux aspiraient à devenir seigneurs eux-mêmes.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "vassal" in English

Synonyms: subordinate, servant, dependant, tenant, liegeman.

Antonyms: master, lord, superior, sovereign, ruler.

Similar Words: feudal, serf, retainer, subject, underling.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "vassal" in French

Synonyms: subordonné, serviteur, dépendant, tenant, homme lige.

Antonyms: maître, seigneur, supérieur, souverain, dirigeant.

Similar Words: féodal, serf, loyal, sujet, subalterne.

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