Estrepement meaning

Estrepement is a medieval form of punishment where a person is crushed by a heavy weight.


Estrepement definitions

Word backwards tnemepertse
Part of speech Estrepement is a noun.
Syllabic division es-tre-pe-ment
Plural The plural form of the word "estrepement" is "estrepements."
Total letters 11
Vogais (1) e
Consonants (6) s,t,r,p,m,n

Understanding Estrepement

Estrepement is a term used in medieval law to describe a fine or penalty imposed on a tenant who had not fulfilled their feudal obligations. The word is derived from the Old French word "estrepement," meaning forfeiture or loss. This penalty was typically imposed when a tenant failed to provide military service, pay rent, or neglected the upkeep of the land they held.

Feudal System and Estrepement

In the feudal system, land was granted to tenants in exchange for various services and obligations. Failure to meet these obligations could result in the imposition of estrepement. This penalty was meant to serve as a deterrent and ensure that tenants fulfilled their duties to their lord.

Penalties and Consequences

Estrepement could take various forms, such as the confiscation of property, animals, or even imprisonment. The severity of the penalty would depend on the nature of the offense and the discretion of the lord. In some cases, the fine could be so high that it would lead to the complete impoverishment of the tenant.

Legal Framework and Enforcement

Estrepement was enforced within the feudal legal system, which was based on customary law and the decisions of local lords. The process of imposing and collecting estrepement was often arbitrary and lacked a standardized legal framework. This allowed lords significant leeway in enforcing penalties.

Legacy of Estrepement

Estrepement serves as a reminder of the strict and hierarchical nature of feudal society. It highlights the power dynamics between lords and tenants, as well as the importance of fulfilling one's obligations in the feudal system. While no longer practiced today, estrepement remains an intriguing aspect of medieval legal history.


Estrepement Examples

  1. The estrepement of the waves against the shore was both calming and invigorating.
  2. She could hear the estrepement of footsteps approaching, causing her heart to race.
  3. The estrepement of the wind through the trees created a haunting melody.
  4. The sudden estrepement of laughter filled the room, catching everyone by surprise.
  5. His words were drowned out by the estrepement of car horns outside.
  6. The estrepement of the storm raging outside made it impossible to sleep.
  7. The estrepement of the violinist's bow on the strings sent shivers down her spine.
  8. As the fire crackled, the estrepement of the flames could be heard from across the room.
  9. Despite the chaos around her, she focused on the estrepement of her own heartbeat.
  10. The sudden estrepement of applause filled the auditorium, signaling the end of the performance.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 12/07/2024 - 15:39:09