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cleruchy

/klɪˈruːki/ noun · British & US
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What does cleruchy mean?

A cleruchy is a type of ancient Greek landowner who was granted land in exchange for military service. This system was used by the Athenians and other city-states to settle colonists and expand their territories. The cleruchy system had a significant impact on the development of ancient Greek society, influencing the economy, politics, and culture of the time. The term cleruchy is primarily used in historical and academic contexts to refer to this specific type of landowner. It is an important concept in the study of ancient Greek history and culture, and continues to be studied by historians and archaeologists today.

noun

A cleruchy is a type of ancient Greek landowner who was granted land in exchange for military service.

Senses
  1. A cleruchy is a type of ancient Greek landowner who was granted land in exchange for military service.
Example

"The historian studied the cleruchy system and its impact on ancient Greek society."

More examples

"The historian studied the cleruchy system and its impact on ancient Greek society."

"The archaeologist excavated a site that revealed evidence of a cleruchy settlement."

Plural cleruchies

The plural form cleruchies is used to refer to multiple cleruchies or to describe a group of cleruchies.

Example

"The archaeologist excavated a site that revealed evidence of multiple cleruchy settlements."

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Etymology of cleruchy

The term cleruchy is derived from the Greek word κληρουχία (klerouchia), meaning 'land-grant'. This term was later adopted into Latin as cleruchia. The concept of the cleruchy system dates back to ancient Greece, where it was used to settle colonists and expand territories.

How cleruchy is actually used

The term cleruchy is primarily used in historical and academic contexts to refer to this specific type of ancient Greek landowner.

What's another word for cleruchy?

Rhymes with cleruchy