geld
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɡɛld/
KK: /gɛld/
noun
Definition
A tax that was paid to the king or crown by landowners in England during the time of the Anglo-Saxon and Norman rulers.
Example
The landowners were required to pay geld to the crown as part of their obligations.
Conversation
Did you know that some old taxes were called geld?
Really? I had no idea what that meant.
Yeah, it was a tax paid to the crown back in the day.
That's interesting! I wonder how much it was back then.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tax
levy
duty
Antonyms
exemption
rebate
refund
transitive verb
Definition
To remove the reproductive organs of an animal, especially a male horse, or to weaken something.
Example
The veterinarian had to geld the stallion to prevent it from breeding.
Tense Forms
Past: gelded
Past Participle: gelded
Conversation
Did you hear they plan to geld the old stallion at the barn?
Yeah, I heard it’s for his own health.
I just hope it doesn’t geld his spirit too much.
Root Explanation
The word 'geld' originates from Old English 'gieldan', meaning to pay or yield. It is related to the concept of payment or tribute, particularly in the context of taxes or dues.
Memory Tip
Think of 'yielding' or 'paying' something, as 'geld' means to give or pay a tribute.
Visually Confused Words
gelid
gel
ged
eld
gerald
gelada