lord
UK: lɔːd | US: lɔːrd
n. a person who has authority, control, or power over others; a master or ruler
n. (historical) a feudal superior, especially the owner of a manor
n. (capitalized) a title for certain high-ranking male peers or officials in the UK
The word "lord" originates from Old English hlāford, a contraction of hlāfweard, literally meaning "bread-keeper" (hlāf = bread, weard = guardian). This reflects the societal role of a lord as the provider and protector of his household or community. Over time, the term evolved to denote authority figures, feudal superiors, and nobility, shedding its literal connection to food but retaining the core idea of guardianship and power.
The lord of the manor oversaw the peasants working his land.
In medieval times, a lord's word was law within his domain.
The House of Lords is part of the UK Parliament.
He was addressed as "my lord" during the formal ceremony.
The tribal elders regarded him as their spiritual lord.