Definition of lordship

The word "lordship" originated in Anglo-Saxon England, around the 11th century. It can be traced back to two Old English words, "hlāf" meaning "loaf" or "bread" and "scip" meaning "ship" or "commodity". In Middle English, "hlāf" came to represent a person's landholdings or territorial possessions, which they could share with their followers in the form of bread or other provisions. This form of landownership came to be known as "hlāfweard", meaning "bread-keeper". As the Normans conquered England in 1066, they brought with them the French word "seigneur", meaning "lord". The English quickly adopted this term, replacing "hlāfweard" with "lord" or "lorte" in certain dialects. However, "lord" came to be associated more with aristocratic power and authority, while "lordship" (or "hlāfweardship") referred specifically to the relationship between a landlord and his tenants, who were bound by feudal obligations and owed him loyalty and service. Over time, the meaning of "lordship" shifted to encompass the entirety of a lord's estate and the rights and privileges that came with it, including the power to levy taxes, collect rents, and dispense justice. In modern usage, "lordship" generally refers to the social and political role of a landowner, particularly in rural areas where traditional land ownership and management practices still exist.