vassal
Example Sentences
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It is more of a vassal, or protectorate, or a colony.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 3, 2026
“Being a happy vassal is one thing. Being a miserable slave is something else,” Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever said.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 26, 2026
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
Toranaga gathers his vassals in Edo to certify his big decision.
From New York Times ● Apr. 9, 2024
“No one has the right to tear the realm apart,” he tells his assembled vassals as he agrees to surrender to the Council.
From New York Times ● Apr. 2, 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
Behind them in long swift lines came all their vassals from the northern mountains, speeding on a gathering wind.
From "The Return of the King" by J.R.R. Tolkien
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