angaria

noun

an·​gar·​ia
aŋˈga(a)rēə,
anˈ-
1
in Roman and civil law : a compulsory service exacted by the government, a lord, or the church
2
in maritime law : the forcible seizure of a ship for public service
3
in international law : angary
4
in feudal law : a troublesome or vexatious service exacted by a lord of his tenant

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin, from Greek angareia, from angaros royal (Persian) courier

First Known Use

circa 1707, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of angaria was circa 1707

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Cite this Entry

“Angaria.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/angaria. Accessed 26 Apr. 2024.

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