liegeman
Feudal oath-bound servant
A liegeman is a feudal vassal bound to serve a lord, owing loyalty and military service in exchange for land or protection.
The term appears mainly in historical contexts or fantasy literature: The king summoned his liegemen to defend the realm.
Figuratively, a liegeman is any devoted follower or subordinate.
Land-holding sworn subordinate
- homageExpression of deep respect
- fealtyPledged devotion to authority
- oathFormal binding promise
- fiefGranted feudal estate
manor · serfdom · lordship · suzerainty · overlord · bannerman · retainer · bondman
Loyalty owed to authority
- devotionDeep, loyal commitment
- fidelityLoyalty or exactness
- faithfulnessDevoted loyalty maintained
- steadfastnessFirm loyal dedication
constancy · troth · dedication · commitment · honor-bound · trustworthiness · reliability · adherence
vassal
Land-holding sworn subordinate
fief · manor · serfdom · lordship · suzerainty · overlord · bannerman · retainer · bondman · thrall
allegiance
Loyalty owed to authority
- devotionDeep, loyal commitment
- fidelityLoyalty or exactness
- faithfulnessDevoted loyalty maintained
steadfastness · constancy · troth · dedication · commitment · honor-bound · trustworthiness · reliability · adherence · bond
knight
Honored mounted soldier
heraldry · armour · tourney · joust · castle · keep · bastion · sword · shield · lance
liegemanfreeman
Unchained person with rights
independent · sovereign · outlaw · mercenary · free agent