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stadtholdership

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: //ˈstɑːt.hoʊldər.ʃɪp//

KK: /ˈstɑtˌhoʊldərˌʃɪp/

noun
Definition

The position or role of a leader or governor in certain regions, especially in the Netherlands, during historical times.


Example

The stadtholdership was a significant position in the governance of the Dutch Republic.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of the term stadtholdership?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think it refers to a historical position in some countries.
Sloth A
Exactly! It was really important in the governance of the Netherlands.
Sloth B
Right! It’s fascinating how that role shaped their political landscape.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
governorship
leadership
rulership
Antonyms
subordination
disempowerment
powerlessness
Root Explanation

Stadtholdership is formed from "stadtholder" (from Dutch, meaning steward or holder of a place) and "-ship" (meaning the state or condition of). The term refers to the position or office of a stadtholder, essentially denoting the role of a steward or leader in a specific area.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'stadtholder' as someone who 'holds' ('holder') a position of authority in a place ('stad'), and '-ship' indicates the state of that role. This helps you remember that 'stadtholdership' refers to the office or position of a leader.

Visually Confused Words
landholdership
shareholdership
holdership
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