thegn Definition
- 1a freeman of Anglo-Saxon England, ranking below an ealdorman in social status and above a ceorl
- 2a feudal lord or baron in medieval England
Using thegn: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "thegn" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Thegns were important figures in Anglo-Saxon society.
Example
Thegns were expected to provide military service to their lords.
Example
Thegns were granted land in return for their loyalty and service.
Example
Thegns played a role in the administration of justice in Anglo-Saxon England.
thegn Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with thegn
thane's man
a follower or retainer of a thegn or lord
Example
He was a thane's man, loyal to his lord until the end.
the thane's court
a court held by a thegn or lord to administer justice and settle disputes
Example
The dispute was settled at the thane's court, with the thane acting as judge.
thane's land
land granted to a thegn by the king or lord in return for military service and loyalty
Example
He was granted thane's land for his service in battle.
Origins of thegn
from Old English 'þegn', meaning 'servant, attendant, retainer'
Summary: thegn in Brief
The term 'thegn' [θeɪn] refers to a freeman of Anglo-Saxon England who ranked below an ealdorman in social status and above a ceorl. They were granted land in return for their loyalty and service, and played a role in the administration of justice. 'Thane' extends into phrases like 'thane's man,' denoting a follower or retainer of a thegn or lord, and 'thane's land,' referring to land granted to a thegn by the king or lord in return for military service and loyalty.
