A demesne (/ dɪˈmeɪn, - ˈmiːn / di-MAYN, -⁠MEEN) or domain[1] was all the land retained and managed by a lord of the manor under the feudal system for his own use, occupation, [2] or support. This distinguished it from land sub-enfeoffed by him to others as sub-tenants.

The meaning of DEMESNE is legal possession of land as one's own. Did you know?

Demesne, in English feudal law, that portion of a manor not granted to freehold tenants but either retained by the lord for his own use and occupation or occupied by his villeins or leasehold tenants.

DEMESNE definition: 1. an area of land owned and controlled by someone: 2. the land belonging to a manor (= a large…. Learn more.

May 23, 2024 · In the manorialist system of land ownership which existed across much of Europe during the feudal era, the demesne was a section of land set aside for the exclusive use of the lord of the manor. By contrast, so-called alienated lands were given out as freeholds by the lord.

1. possession of land as one's own. 2. an estate occupied by and worked exclusively for the owner. 3. the dominion or territory of a sovereign or state; domain. 4. a district; region. [1250–1300; < Anglo-French demesne, Old French demein; see domain]

May 18, 2018 · demesne was a legal term to describe land and property worked for the direct benefit of the owner. During the Middle Ages the importance of such holdings varied: at times it was more valuable for owners to work the land themselves, whilst at others it was more profitable to rent the land to tenants.

Jan 28, 2025 · In medieval Europe, a demesne was the part of a lord's land that he kept for his own use. These days, it's more often used to mean "property" or "territory." The term demesne was originally used to distinguish land totally controlled by a …

Dec 11, 2024 · Explore the evolution of demesne lands and their integral role in shaping the feudal system throughout history. The concept of the demesne significantly shaped medieval European society, influencing both economic and social frameworks during the feudal era.

Dec 29, 2024 · demesne (plural demesnes) A lord's chief manor place, with that part of the lands belonging thereto which has not been granted out in tenancy; a house, and the land adjoining, kept for the proprietor's own use.