vas|sal

vas|sal «VAS uhl», noun, adjective.

–n.

1. in the European feudal system: a) a person who held lands from a lord or a superior, to whom in return he gave help in war or some other service. A great noble could be a vassal of the king and have many other men as his vassals. b) a tenant in fee; retainer.

2. a) a person who holds a position similar to that of a feudal vassal. b) a person in the service of another; servant. c) Figurative. a person completely subject to some influence: »

The feeble vassals of wine and anger and lust (Tennyson). To You, O Goddess of Efficiency, Your happy vassals bend the reverent knee (Samuel Hoffenstein).

3. a bondman; slave.

–adj.

1. like that of a vassal; subject; subordinate: »

vassal princes, a vassal nation.

SYNONYM(S): dependent.

2. of, having to do with, or like a vassal: »

an oath of vassal loyalty.

╂[< Old French vassal < Medieval Latin vassallus retainer < vassus < Celtic (compare Old Irish foss servant)]