Bondman

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈbɒndˌmæn/

Definitions

1. (Noun) A man who is bound in servitude, often under a contract or for repayment of a debt, historically often associated with slavery or indentured labor.
2. (Noun) A man who is under the ownership or control of someone else due to legal or economic reasons.

Usage Examples

1. "The bondman worked in the fields, with his labor bound by the terms of the contract."
2. "In the past, many bondmen were forced into servitude due to poverty and legal constraints."

Etymology

The word "bondman" comes from the Old English "bond" (meaning a bond or obligation) and "man" (meaning a male individual). The term originally referred to a man who was bound by contract or servitude, often as part of a system of debt repayment or feudal labor obligations.

Synonyms

• Servant
• Indentured servant
• Laborer
• Slave

Antonyms

• Free man
• Emancipated person
• Independent man

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Pronunciation of "bondman" may vary regionally, though it is generally consistent in modern English. In some dialects, particularly older ones, it may be pronounced with a more drawn-out vowel sound in the first syllable.

Historical Usage

The term "bondman" was historically used in feudal societies to describe a man who was bound to a master due to debt, legal obligations, or as part of a contract. The concept was central to systems of servitude, labor, and slavery in many cultures, particularly in Europe and the Americas.

Cultural Nuances

Historically, bondmen were often at the lowest rungs of society, subjected to harsh conditions and limited rights. The term has been largely replaced by more specific terms such as "slave" or "indentured servant" but remains an important concept when studying systems of labor, servitude, and class in various historical contexts.

More Information

Bondmen were historically tied to systems of economic exploitation and feudal hierarchies. Their labor was often coerced, either through direct ownership or contractual agreements. The legacy of the bondman is an essential part of understanding the development of labor rights, emancipation movements, and the social struggles that shaped modern societies. Today, the term is used mostly in historical discussions, with emphasis on its role in systems of oppression and economic exploitation.