Teind meaning

The teind refers to a Scottish or English tax or tithe imposed on parishioners to support the church.


Teind definitions

Word backwards dniet
Part of speech The word "teind" is a noun.
Syllabic division The syllable separation of the word "teind" is te-ind.
Plural The plural of the word "teind" is "teinds."
Total letters 5
Vogais (2) e,i
Consonants (3) t,n,d

Teind, also known as teindings or teind silver, refers to a medieval Scottish land tax or tithe that was payable to the church. The term originates from the Old English word "tenth," as the tax was typically one-tenth of the agricultural produce or income generated from the land.

The History of Teind

In medieval Scotland, teinds were an essential source of income for the church, used to support clergy and maintain church buildings. The collection of teinds was overseen by local church officials, who would ensure that landowners paid their dues promptly.

Payment of Teind

Landowners were required to pay teinds in the form of agricultural produce, such as grain, wool, or livestock, or in the form of currency. Failure to pay teind could result in penalties or legal action by the church.

Abolition of Teinds

Over time, the system of teinds fell out of favor, as landowners and farmers sought to free themselves from the burden of paying a tithe to the church. In the 18th and 19th centuries, various laws were passed to abolish teinds and replace them with more equitable forms of taxation.

Legacy of Teinds

Although teinds are no longer collected in Scotland, the system has left a lasting impact on the country's history and culture. Many churches and other historical buildings were constructed or maintained using funds generated from teinds.

Medieval Scotland and tithe

Overall, teind serves as a reminder of Scotland's medieval past and the importance of the church in shaping society and the economy during that time.


Teind Examples

  1. She had to pay her teind to the church every year.
  2. The teind of the harvest was distributed among the villagers.
  3. The farmer set aside a portion of his crop as teind for the local priest.
  4. The teind of the cattle was used to support the parish church.
  5. The teind of the land was collected by the church for its expenses.
  6. The teind of the community's income was used for charitable purposes.
  7. The teind was a common practice in medieval times to support religious institutions.
  8. He resented having to give up a teind of his earnings for taxes.
  9. The teind was a burden on the local population, who struggled to meet the required payments.
  10. She had to calculate the teind owed based on her income for the year.


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  • Updated 05/04/2024 - 14:52:29