KH

Vocabulary List: Middle Ages

Overview

  • Grade Level: 7th Grade
  • Topic: Middle Ages
  • Number of Words: 10

Vocabulary Words

  1. Feudalism

    • Definition: A social system that existed in Europe during the Middle Ages, where land was owned by nobles and worked by serfs.
    • Example: Feudalism was the dominant social structure throughout the Middle Ages in Europe.
    • Pronunciation: FYOO-duh-lizm
    • Synonyms: manorialism, noble system
  2. Serf

    • Definition: A laborer bound under the feudal system to work on his lord's estate.
    • Example: The serf worked tirelessly in the fields to meet his lord's demands.
    • Pronunciation: surf
    • Synonyms: peasant, worker
  3. Chivalry

    • Definition: The medieval knightly system with its religious, moral, and social code, often related to bravery and honorable conduct.
    • Example: The ideals of chivalry emphasized valor and the protection of the weak.
    • Pronunciation: SHIV-uhl-ree
    • Synonyms: knighthood, gallantry
  4. Crusade

    • Definition: A series of religious wars sanctioned by the Latin Church in the medieval period to reclaim the Holy Land.
    • Example: The Crusades were a significant aspect of medieval history, affecting Europe and the Middle East.
    • Pronunciation: kroo-ZAYD
    • Synonyms: campaign, mission
  5. Vassal

    • Definition: A person who has entered into a mutual obligation to a lord or monarch in the feudal system, for land and protection.
    • Example: The vassal pledged loyalty to his lord in exchange for land and military support.
    • Pronunciation: VAS-uhl
    • Synonyms: subordinate, liegeman
  6. Manor

    • Definition: Historical term for a unit of land, originally a feudal lord's estate that included villages and farmland.
    • Example: The manor served as the center of agricultural life during the Middle Ages.
    • Pronunciation: MAN-er
    • Synonyms: estate, demesne
  7. Plague

    • Definition: A widespread disease that occurred during the Middle Ages, notably the Black Death, which caused massive fatalities.
    • Example: The plague swept through Europe, leading to the death of millions and altering society forever.
    • Pronunciation: PLAYG
    • Synonyms: epidemic, pestilence
  8. Guild

    • Definition: An association of artisans or merchants in the Middle Ages that controlled the practice of their craft in a particular town.
    • Example: The guild ensured quality and fair prices for goods produced in the city.
    • Pronunciation: GILD
    • Synonyms: association, union
  9. Bubonic

    • Definition: A reference to the form of plague caused by Yersinia pestis, characterized by swollen lymph nodes.
    • Example: Bubonic plague was responsible for the high death toll during medieval pandemics.
    • Pronunciation: byoo-BON-ik
    • Synonyms: plague-related, infection
  10. Noble

    • Definition: A person of high ranking in the feudal system, often owning land and having significant power and influence.
    • Example: The noble held vast estates and was responsible for the welfare of the serfs who worked them.
    • Pronunciation: NOH-buhl
    • Synonyms: aristocrat, lord