Burgherhood is a term that is not commonly used in everyday language. However, it is a term that has historical significance and is still used in certain contexts. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of burgherhood.
Definitions
Burgherhood is the state or quality of being a burgher. A burgher is a citizen of a town or city, particularly one belonging to the middle class. In medieval times, burghers were often merchants or craftsmen who had gained wealth and status through their trade.
Origin
The word burgherhood comes from the Middle English word burgher, which means “inhabitant of a borough or town.” The word is derived from the Old High German word burgari, which means “inhabitant of a fortress or walled town.”
Meaning in different dictionaries
The Oxford English Dictionary defines burgherhood as “the state or quality of being a burgher.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “the status or character of a burgher.”
Associations
Burgherhood is often associated with the middle class and with the rise of urbanization and trade in medieval Europe. It is also associated with civic responsibility and participation in local government.
Synonyms
Synonyms for burgherhood include citizenship, civic responsibility, and middle-class status.
Antonyms
Antonyms for burgherhood include nobility, aristocracy, and peasantry.
The same root words
The word burgherhood shares a root with other words such as burgess, which refers to a citizen of a borough or town, and bourgeoisie, which refers to the middle class as a whole.
Example Sentences
- The burgherhood of the town was proud of its history and traditions.
- The rise of burgherhood in medieval Europe led to the growth of trade and commerce.
- The burgherhood of the city was actively involved in local government and civic affairs.
Burgherhood is a term that may not be commonly used in everyday language, but it has historical significance and is still used in certain contexts. It refers to the state or quality of being a burgher, a citizen of a town or city belonging to the middle class. Burgherhood is associated with civic responsibility, local government, and the rise of urbanization and trade in medieval Europe.