Added 9 October 2026 feudalism /ˈfju.də.lɪ.zəm/ noun Categories: SocietyRare Words In Latin: feudalismus Wiktionary noun ! Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about feudalism at Wordnik → Where our words come from → A social system based on personal ownership of resources and personal fealty between a suzerain (lord) and a vassal (subject). Defining characteristics are direct ownership of resources, personal loyalty, and a hierarchical social structure reinforced by religion. Related Words: feudalfederalismserfdomseigneurialismfeudalityfiefdommanorialismvassalagelandlordismclientage Back to today's word