Arrière-ban meaning

Arrière-ban refers to the medieval feudal levy system in France.


Arrière-ban definitions

Word backwards nab-erèirra
Part of speech Arrière-ban is a noun.
Syllabic division ar-riè-re-ban
Plural The plural of the word arrière-ban is arrière-bans.
Total letters 10
Vogais (3) a,i,e
Consonants (3) r,b,n

Arrière-ban was a term used in medieval France to refer to a military organization composed of all able-bodied men who owed military service to the king. These men were required to provide their own equipment and fight when called upon by the king or his representatives.

Origins and Purpose

The term arrière-ban originated in the early Middle Ages and was used to mobilize a large portion of the population for military service in times of conflict. The purpose of the arrière-ban was to ensure that the king had a large pool of troops available to defend the realm and wage war against external threats.

Organization and Composition

The arrière-ban was organized at the local level, with each region responsible for providing a certain number of armed men based on its population size. These men were required to report for duty when summoned and serve for a set period of time. The composition of the arrière-ban varied, but it typically included commoners, nobles, and knights.

Role and Decline

Throughout the Middle Ages, the arrière-ban played a crucial role in the military defense of France. However, as professional standing armies became more common in Europe, the arrière-ban gradually declined in importance. By the end of the Middle Ages, it had largely been replaced by paid mercenaries and professional soldiers.

In conclusion, the arrière-ban was a significant military institution in medieval France that helped ensure the kingdom's defense in times of war. While its role diminished over time, it remains an important part of European military history.


Arrière-ban Examples

  1. The arrière-ban was called to serve in times of war.
  2. The king summoned the arrière-ban to fight against the invading army.
  3. In medieval France, the arrière-ban was a feudal levy of all able-bodied men.
  4. The feudal lord could call upon the arrière-ban to defend his lands.
  5. The arrière-ban was a crucial part of medieval military strategy.
  6. During the Hundred Years' War, the arrière-ban provided soldiers for the French army.
  7. Being part of the arrière-ban was both an honor and a duty.
  8. The arrière-ban was a key institution in the feudal system.
  9. The arrière-ban was mobilized to repel the enemy forces.
  10. Men of all social classes could be called to serve in the arrière-ban.


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  • Updated 20/05/2024 - 20:51:58