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satrapy

/sætˈræpi/ noun · British & US
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What does satrapy mean?

A satrapy was a province or territory ruled by a satrap in ancient Persia, particularly during the Achaemenid Empire. The term is often used in historical and academic contexts to refer to the administrative divisions of ancient empires. The satrapy system allowed the Achaemenid Empire to govern its vast territories efficiently. The satrap was responsible for collecting taxes, maintaining order, and upholding the laws of the empire. The satrapy of Bactria was a key region in the ancient Silk Road, and the satrapy of Lydia was a major power in the ancient world. The concept of satrapy has been studied by historians and scholars to understand the administrative and political structures of ancient empires. The term has also been used in modern contexts to refer to large administrative divisions or territories.

noun

A satrapy was a province or territory ruled by a satrap, a governor or viceroy, in ancient Persia, particularly during the Achaemenid Empire.

Senses
  1. A province or territory ruled by a satrap in ancient Persia.
Example

"The satrapy of Bactria was a key region in the ancient Silk Road."

More examples

"The satrapy of Lydia was a major power in the ancient world."

"The satrapy system allowed the Achaemenid Empire to govern its vast territories efficiently."

Plural satrapies

The plural form is used to refer to multiple provinces or territories ruled by satraps.

Example

"The satrapies of the Achaemenid Empire were vast and diverse."

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

Etymology of satrapy

The word satrapy comes from the Persian word 'satrapya', which means 'province' or 'territory'. The term was used in ancient Persia to refer to the administrative divisions of the empire. The Achaemenid Empire, which ruled from the 6th to the 4th century BCE, used the satrapy system to govern its vast territories. The satrap was responsible for collecting taxes, maintaining order, and upholding the laws of the empire.

How satrapy is actually used

The term satrapy is often used in historical and academic contexts to refer to the administrative divisions of ancient empires.

What's another word for satrapy?

Rhymes with satrapy