What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
villainage
Example
Villainage was a common practice in medieval Europe. [villainage: noun]
Example
The villains worked hard on the lord's land to earn their living. [villains: noun]
Example
He was born into villainage and had no hope of escaping his lowly status. [villainage: noun]
serfdom
Example
Serfdom was abolished in Russia in the mid-19th century. [serfdom: noun]
Example
The serfs worked hard on the lord's estate and had little freedom. [serfs: noun]
Example
She was born into serfdom and dreamed of a better life. [serfdom: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Both villainage and serfdom are rarely used in modern English, as they describe historical systems that are no longer in place.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between villainage and serfdom?
Both villainage and serfdom are formal words that are not commonly used in everyday language. They are more likely to be encountered in academic or historical contexts.
