Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

helot

noun

/ˈhɛlət/

Definition

A member of a class of serfs in ancient Sparta.

Examples

The helots provided essential labor for the Spartan economy, enabling the warriors to focus on military training.
Spartans maintained strict control over the helots to prevent uprisings.
A helot’s life was harsh, as they had very few rights and were often treated as property.

Meaning

Helots were agricultural laborers who were bound to the land and owned by the state in ancient Sparta. They worked the fields and served the needs of the Spartan citizens.