Added 8 October 2026
overlord
/ˈəʊvə(ɹ)lɔː(ɹ)d/ noun
noun Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about overlord at Wordnik → Where our words come from →
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A ruler of other rulers.
The various tribal chieftains met each spring to elect an overlord that would lead them in time of war.
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A feudal lord directly owed rent or personal service by a tenant of subinfeudated land, a tenant's liege lord.
The tenant owed a variety of obligations to his overlord—usually including military service or serjeanty—but these were gradually converted into monetary rents.
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Anyone with overarching power or authority in a given domain.
The crusty old professor was overlord of the history department, and few dared to cross his will.
verb
Origin
From Middle English oferrlaferrd, orlard, our-lord, ouyr-lord, equivalent to over- + lord.
From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)