Serf

usgb/sɜːrf/
noun

A person in the past who lived and worked on the land of a lord in exchange for protection and the right to live on and use the land.

In medieval Europe, most of the population consisted of serfs.
Visual representation of "serf" - A person in the past who lived and worked on the land of a lord in exchange for protection and the right to live on and use the land.

Often appears as...

  • feudal serf
  • serf labour

Usage tips

Historical

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Visual representation of "serf"
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Historical Context

Understand 'serf' as part of the feudal system where social hierarchy was strict.

Illustration for Historical Context
History books often describe the lives of serfs during the Middle Ages.
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Not Slaves

'Serf' does not mean 'slave'; serfs had some rights and personal freedom.

Illustration for Not Slaves
Unlike slaves, serfs could not be bought or sold.
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Bound to Land

Serfs were tied to their lord's land, which they worked on to earn living rights.

Illustration for Bound to Land
A serf's duty often included tending to their lord's fields and caring for livestock.
Visual representation of the word "Serf"

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