Definition

The act of a vassal leasing part of their feudal estate to another tenant, who then pays loyalty to the vassal.

Example

The lord allowed for subinfeudation, enabling his vassals to lease portions of their land to others.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term subinfeudation?

Yeah, I think it has to do with feudal systems, right?

Exactly! It's when a vassal leases land to someone else.

That makes sense; it's like a mini feudal system within a larger one.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Subinfeudation is formed from "sub-" (meaning under) and "infeudare" (meaning to grant land in feudal tenure). The word refers to the process of granting land by a vassal to another vassal under the original lord's authority, thus creating a hierarchy of land ownership.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sub-' meaning 'under' and 'infeudation' relating to land grants — this helps you remember that subinfeudation is about land being granted under another's authority.

Visually Confused Words