Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
ealdorman
Noun
/ˈeɪl.dɔːr.mən/
Definition
An ealdorman is a historical title in Anglo-Saxon England, referring to a nobleman or a leader of a shire, equivalent to a modern-day governor.
Examples
- The ealdorman presided over the local council meetings.
- He was appointed ealdorman after years of service to the community.
- In times of war, the ealdorman would rally the knights to defend the kingdom.
Meaning
The term originates from Old English, where ‘eald’ means ‘old’ or ‘eld’ and ‘orman’ means ‘man’ or ‘warrior’. Thus, it signifies a ‘wise man’ or ‘elder leader’.
Synonyms
- chieftain
- governor
- nobleman
