fief
Fief (noun) means Historically, land granted by a lord to a vassal in exchange for loyalty and service. Example: “The knight was granted a fief in return for his service to the duke.”
How to use fief
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishOriginally land held under a feudal lord; now often used loosely for any turf someone controls.
Word forms
fiefs plural
Fill the gap
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The knight was granted a _____ in return for his service to the duke.
Etymology
From Old French fief, from Medieval Latin feudum — the same root that gives us "fee" and "feudal."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for fief
See all rhymes for fief →Frequently asked questions
What does “fief” mean?
The word “fief” means historically, land granted by a lord to a vassal in exchange for loyalty and service. In plain terms, originally land held under a feudal lord; now often used loosely for any turf someone controls.
How do you pronounce “fief”?
“Fief” is pronounced feef (/fiːf/ in IPA).
How do you use “fief” in a sentence?
Here is “fief” used in a sentence: “The knight was granted a fief in return for his service to the duke.”
What is another word for “fief”?
Words with a similar meaning to “fief” include fee.
What part of speech is “fief”?
“Fief” is a noun.
Where does the word “fief” come from?
The word “fief” comes from Medieval Latin. From Old French fief, from Medieval Latin feudum — the same root that gives us "fee" and "feudal.".
How many meanings does “fief” have?
“Fief” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: historically, land granted by a lord to a vassal in exchange for loyalty and service.
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