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vassal

[vas-uhl] / ˈvæs əl /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

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“Our customers have declined to become vassal states of the language labs. And the market is now shifting dramatically underfoot.”

From The Wall Street Journal Aug. 4, 2026

The sole survivor of a disgraced noble family, Mariko’s past looms over her commitment to her duties as Toranaga’s vassal, a wife and a devout Catholic.

From Los Angeles Times Apr. 24, 2024

Fealty in medieval Europe was an oath of fidelity in which the vassal pledged not to harm his lord or damage to his property.

From Seattle Times Dec. 12, 2023

When asked if Laos is at risk of becoming a vassal state, Mr Menon said "that ship has sailed".

From BBC Oct. 8, 2023

Territorial empires are tightly controlled but costly to maintain; hegemonic empires are inexpensive to maintain, because the original local rulers incur the costs of administration, but the loose tie between master and vassal encourages rebellion.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann

I’ll note that the demon is a more honest and fair negotiator than his vassals, who occasionally cheat and are punished in exactly the way you’re hoping to see.

From Los Angeles Times Mar. 19, 2026

Because of our past forays, these knights have long been vassals without lords.

From New York Times Jun. 18, 2024

The vassals have a duty to give honest advice, and their advice is that this course of action is madness.

From New York Times Apr. 9, 2024

“But if you read between the lines, that’s what it means—these were vassals, probably of Tikal directly and Teotihuacán indirectly.”

From National Geographic Jan. 26, 2024

Instead, in the by-now familiar hegemonic pattern, they tried to force the rulers of the vanquished state to become their vassals.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann




Vocabulary lists containing vassal


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