Definition of vassal

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< vasovagal

vassalage >

vas·sal    (vsl) KEY  

NOUN:

1. A person who held land from a feudal lord and received protection in return for homage and allegiance.
2. A bondman; a slave.
3. A subordinate or dependent.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, from Old French, from Vulgar Latin *vassallus, from *vassus, of Celtic origin; see upo in Indo-European roots

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