Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Having no lord or master: Describes a person, group, or entity that is not under the authority, control, or feudal service of a lord or master. It implies a state of being without a superior ruler or owner.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • After the king's death and the collapse of the feudal system, many peasants became lordless and free to work their own land.
  • The lordless knights wandered the countryside, offering their swords to the highest bidder.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Literary Context: The term is often used in historical or literary discussions about feudalism, medieval society, or periods of social upheaval where traditional hierarchies broke down.
  • The chronicles describe the time of anarchy as a land filled with lordless men and lawless bands.

Variants and Related Words

• Masterless (adj): Very similar in meaning, specifically lacking a master or employer. Often used interchangeably with "lordless" in historical contexts.
  • The city was wary of the influx of masterless soldiers after the war.

Synonyms

• Unruled: Not governed or controlled.
• Unmastered: Not under the control of a master.
• Autonomous: Self-governing; independent (though this often has a more positive connotation of self-rule, whereas "lordless" can imply a lack of protection or order).

Antonyms

• Feudal: Relating to a system where lords grant land to vassals in exchange for service.
• Subservient: Prepared to obey others unquestioningly.
• Subject: Being under the authority of a monarch or government.

Adjective

1. having no lord or master
   • harsh punishments for sturdy vagabonds and masterless men