Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

danegeld

noun
/ˈdeɪnˌɡɛld/
Definition
A tax paid to the Danes (Norsemen) in medieval England, originally to buy peace with them.
Examples
  • The king imposed a danegeld to ensure the safety of his lands from Viking invaders.
  • Historically, many English kings resorted to danegeld as a means to avoid conflict.
Meaning
Danegeld refers to a form of tribute paid to the Vikings to prevent them from invading or plundering, especially during the 9th and 10th centuries.
Synonyms
  • tribute
  • tax
  • levy