Taille meaning

The taille was a land tax imposed on the French peasantry in the Middle Ages.


Taille definitions

Word backwards elliat
Part of speech noun
Syllabic division tai-lle
Plural The plural of the word "taille" is "tailles."
Total letters 6
Vogais (3) a,i,e
Consonants (2) t,l

What is Taille?

Definition of Taille

Taille, a French word for "cut" or "notch," refers to a method of taxation used in medieval and early modern France. It was a direct tax imposed on the common people, particularly the peasants, in which the amount they had to pay was determined by their land holdings or income level. The taille was one of the most significant sources of revenue for the French monarchy during this period.

History of Taille

The taille was initially established in the 12th century and continued to be levied until the French Revolution in 1789. It was an essential part of the feudal system, with the nobility and clergy often exempt from paying the tax. This regressive form of taxation placed a heavy burden on the lower classes and was a source of resentment and discontent among the French population.

Impact of Taille

The taille played a crucial role in the financial administration of the French monarchy, funding its military campaigns, court expenses, and other activities. However, the unequal distribution of the tax contributed to social unrest and was one of the grievances that led to the Revolution. The abolition of the taille was one of the demands of the revolutionaries.

Legacy of Taille

Although the taille is no longer in existence, its legacy remains in the history of French taxation. The system highlighted the disparities in wealth and power in French society, leading to calls for reform and greater equality. The abolition of the taille was a step towards a more equitable tax system in France.


Taille Examples

  1. The tailor took my measurements for the new suit.
  2. The dress was too big, so I needed it tailored to my size.
  3. In France, the taille was a direct tax on the French peasantry.
  4. The taille of the tree indicated its age.
  5. The tailor used a measuring tape to determine the right taille for the trousers.
  6. Her waist taille was accentuated by the fitting dress.
  7. The taille of the building made it stand out among the other structures.
  8. He decided to go on a diet to reduce his taille.
  9. The tailor explained that the taille of the shirt could be adjusted to fit better.
  10. The taille of the wine bottle was impressive, holding more than the standard size.


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  • Updated 25/03/2024 - 15:02:10