Burgess is a word that has been in use for centuries and has a rich history. It has different meanings that have evolved over time. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of the word “burgess” and its associations, synonyms, antonyms, and examples of its usage.
Definitions
The word “burgess” has several definitions, depending on the context in which it is used. The most common definition of the word is a citizen of a town or borough who has the right to vote and participate in local government. In medieval times, a burgess was a member of the middle class who owned property and had certain legal rights.
Origin
The word “burgess” comes from the Old English word “burh,” which means a fortified town or city. It was used to describe a person who lived in a fortified town or city and had certain rights and privileges.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “burgess” is defined as “a citizen of a town or borough, especially a member of the governing body.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines “burgess” as “a freeman of a borough or town, entitled to certain privileges, especially the right to vote.”
Associations
The word “burgess” is often associated with local government, democracy, and citizenship. It is also associated with medieval times and the middle class.
Synonyms
The synonyms of “burgess” include citizen, freeman, townsperson, and resident.
Antonyms
The antonyms of “burgess” include alien, foreigner, and outsider.
The same root words
The word “burgess” shares the same root words with other words such as “borough,” “burgher,” and “burgh.”
Example Sentences
- John was elected as a burgess of the town council.
- The burgess of the town had the right to vote and participate in local government.
- In medieval times, only wealthy burgesses had the right to vote and participate in local government.
- The burgesses of the town were responsible for maintaining law and order in the community.