feudalism Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the social system that developed in Europe in the 8th century; vassals were protected by lords who they had to serve in war
    feudal system.

WordNet

Feu"dal*ism noun
Etymology
Cf. F. féodalisme.
Definitions
  1. The feudal system; a system by which the holding of estates in land is made dependent upon an obligation to render military service to the kind or feudal superior; feudal principles and usages.

Webster 1913