Lord
/lɔːrd/
Definitions
3 meaningsA person or thing that has power, authority, or influence; a master or ruler.
/lɔːrd/
A person who has authority, control, or power over others; a master or ruler.
The Lord of the castle held a lavish feast for the visiting dignitaries.
💡 Simply: Imagine a king or queen, or even the boss at your job. They are the 'lord' of their domain, meaning they're in charge and make the rules. It's like being the leader!
👶 For kids: A lord is like a boss, king, or someone super important who is in charge.
More Examples
He pledged his loyalty to his lord and vowed to protect his kingdom.
The local lord was known for his fairness and wisdom in settling disputes.
How It's Used
"The lord of the manor controlled the land and its tenants."
"Christians often refer to God as Lord."
A man of noble rank or high social position, especially in the British peerage.
/lɔːrd/
A title of nobility or honor.
The lord addressed the assembly with a solemn tone.
💡 Simply: In olden days, the word 'Lord' was a fancy title given to important people like knights or those with special family history. It’s like the name of a special club for important people.
👶 For kids: Lord is like a special name for a really important person, like a king or someone who lives in a castle.
More Examples
Lord Byron was a famous Romantic poet.
The new member was introduced as Lord Ashworth.
How It's Used
"Lord Mountbatten was a prominent figure in British history."
"The Queen addressed the assembled lords and ladies."
To act as a lord; to exercise authority or control over.
/lɔːrd/
To rule over; to have control or mastery over.
He refused to lord his power over the people.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone bossing someone else around in a very important way. That's like 'lording' over them. It's like being the ruler or boss!
👶 For kids: Lording means being the boss or ruler of something.
More Examples
The general lorded his army over the captured territories.
Some believe that humans should not lord the earth.
How It's Used
"The king lorded over his vast empire."
Idioms & expressions
Lord have mercy
An expression of surprise, dismay, or distress; a plea for help or compassion, often used in religious contexts.
"Lord have mercy, it's raining cats and dogs!"
The Lord's Prayer
A central Christian prayer, taught by Jesus to his disciples.
"She recited The Lord's Prayer every night."
From Old English *hlāford* (meaning 'bread-keeper' or 'guardian of bread'), from *hlāf* (loaf of bread) and *weard* (guardian, keeper). It originally referred to the male head of a household and evolved to denote a ruler, nobleman, or someone with authority.
The term 'lord' has been used for centuries, initially denoting a head of household and later evolving to represent feudal rulers and members of the nobility.
Memory tip
Think of the word 'landlord' – he/she has authority over a property; similar concept.
Word Origin
"hlāford (bread-keeper)"