1. the condition of being a vassal; the relationship between a feudal tenant and lord
Usage: historical; feudal system
2. states of political or economic dependence or subjugation

Examples

• The medieval vassalages created complex networks of loyalty and obligation.
• Knights entered into vassalages with their lords in exchange for land grants.
• The historian studied the various vassalages that existed throughout Europe.
• Economic vassalages between nations can limit sovereignty.
• The feudal system was built upon multiple layers of vassalages.
• Modern scholars debate whether certain relationships constitute vassalages.