Serfdom was a system in which poor farmers, called serfs, were tied to a lord’s land and had to work for that lord. They were not fully free to leave or choose where they lived, and in return they were usually given a small piece of land to support themselves.
People use the word serfdom when talking about old feudal societies, especially in Europe and Russia. In everyday English, it can also be used more broadly to describe a life with very little freedom, where someone feels trapped by hard work, debt, or control from others.
Meaning & Usage
Serfdom means being bound to a landowner and having limited personal freedom. It is a historical term, but it can also be used in a figurative way to describe harsh dependence or lack of choice.
Examples
In medieval Europe, many peasants lived under serfdom. Some writers also use “serfdom” to describe workers who feel stuck in unfair conditions.
Is serfdom the same as slavery?
Not exactly. Serfs were not usually owned like slaves, but they had very little freedom and were tied to the land.
Where was serfdom common?
It was common in medieval Europe, and it lasted longer in some places, including Russia.
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