Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
hansa
noun
/ˈhæn.sə/
Definition
A historical alliance of merchant guilds and towns in Northern Europe.
Examples
- The Hansa played a significant role in the trade between different countries in medieval Europe.
- Many cities in modern-day Germany were part of the Hansa, influencing their economic development.
- Hansa routes facilitated not only commerce but also cultural exchange.
Meaning
The term ‘hansa’ refers primarily to the Hanseatic League, which dominated trade in the Baltic and North Sea in the late Middle Ages.
Synonyms
- Hanseatic League
- Trade alliance
- Merchant guild
