Tenant in chief meaning

A "tenant in chief" is a landowner who holds land directly from the king.


Tenant in chief definitions

Word backwards tnanet ni feihc
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division ten-ant in chief
Plural The plural of the word "tenant in chief" is "tenants in chief."
Total letters 13
Vogais (3) e,a,i
Consonants (5) t,n,c,h,f

Tenant in Chief

When it comes to feudal land tenure, a tenant in chief was a noble or lord who held land directly from the king in medieval England. This position was crucial in the feudal hierarchy, as these tenants were responsible for providing military service, financial payments, and other obligations to the monarch.

Role and Responsibilities

As a tenant in chief, individuals were granted large estates or lands by the king in exchange for their loyalty and military support. These lands were typically passed down through inheritance, creating a system of hereditary titles and power. Tenants in chief were expected to provide knights for military service, as well as financial contributions when needed by the king.

Relationship with the King

The relationship between the tenant in chief and the king was complex and hierarchical. While tenants in chief held substantial power and authority within their own domains, they ultimately owed allegiance to the monarch. This relationship was based on mutual obligations and benefits, with each party relying on the other for support and protection.

Legacy and Influence

Tenants in chief played a significant role in shaping the political and social landscape of medieval England. Their power and influence extended beyond their own estates, as they often held positions of authority and leadership in the royal court and government. The legacy of tenants in chief can still be seen in the modern-day aristocracy and landed gentry of England.


Tenant in chief Examples

  1. The tenant in chief was responsible for overseeing the collection of taxes in the region.
  2. As the tenant in chief, he had the authority to grant land to lesser nobles.
  3. The tenant in chief was summoned to the king's court to swear allegiance.
  4. Her father served as a tenant in chief to the local lord.
  5. The tenant in chief was tasked with maintaining the king's property.
  6. The tenants in chief were expected to provide military service in times of war.
  7. The tenant in chief could be removed from their position if they failed to uphold their duties.
  8. The tenant in chief held a position of power and authority in the feudal system.
  9. The tenant in chief was required to attend the king's council meetings.
  10. The king granted the title of tenant in chief to his most loyal supporters.


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  • Updated 18/06/2024 - 16:51:01