Serfdom
/ˈsɜːrfdəm/
Definitions
- (n.) A system of legal and economic servitude under which peasants were bound to a lord's land and subject to the lord's control.
Under medieval serfdom, peasants were required to provide labor and services to their lord.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Serfdom denotes a specific historical legal condition distinct from slavery, characterized by hereditary and territorial obligations rather than outright ownership.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.