vassalage

noun

vas·​sal·​age ˈva-sə-lij How to pronounce vassalage (audio)
1
: a position of subordination or submission (as to a political power)
2
: the state of being a vassal
3
: the homage, fealty, or services due from a vassal

Examples of vassalage in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Putin has too much at stake to end the war himself, but the same is not true of those around him who do not wish to see Russia reduced to indefinite impoverishment; drained of physical resources, youth, and talent; and subjugated to a state of permanent vassalage to China. — Andriy Zagorodnyuk, Foreign Affairs, 21 May 2024 Russia is now locking itself into vassalage to China. — Alexander Gabuev, Foreign Affairs, 9 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, "knightly prowess, state of a vassal," borrowed from Anglo-French, "courage, exploit" from vassal "worthy man, vassal" + -age -age

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of vassalage was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Vassalage.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vassalage. Accessed 16 Mar. 2025.

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