vassal /ˈvæsəl/noun 3verb 2adjective 1forms 5 noun3 •(figurative) Any subordinate bound by similar close ties.The vassals of his anger. — 1667 •(historical) The grantee of a fief, a subordinate granted use of a superior's land and its income in exchange for vows of fidelity and homage and (typically) military service.The manor's vassals owed first fruits and a tithe to the parish church, another 10% to the lord (including at least 50 eels), a week or two each year of service in the manor's upkeep, and service in the local fyrd. •(historical) Any direct subordinate bound by such vows to a superior.The king ordered his vassals to join him on the crusade unless they had a written note signed by the archbishop or pope. verb2 •To treat as a vassal or to reduce to the position of a vassal; to subject to control; to enslave. •To subordinate to someone or something. adjective1 •Resembling a vassal; slavish; servile. formsvassaled · vassalled · vassaling · vassalling · vassals
