vassal
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.
See Examples For:
“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
“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
“In the Merman’s Court, it is customary for vassals and petitioners to kneel.”
From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin
Vocabulary lists containing vassal
The Vocabulary.com Top 1000
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
Beowulf vocabulary
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
100 SAT Words Beginning with "V"
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
