WordGarden.iolord
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /lˈɔːd/
US
- /ˈlɔrd/
Meanings
Proper-noun
God or Jesus as a title of divine authority
Noun
a man with a noble title, especially in British contexts
a man who has power, control, or authority over others, especially historically
Interjection
(informal)used to express surprise, frustration, or emphasis
Verb
to behave toward others in a superior or domineering way
Beyond the definition
The word "lord" is closely tied to power, rank, and respect. In history, a lord was a noble who owned land and had authority over the people on it. The word is also still used as a title, especially in Britain, for some nobles and other important figures. In religious language, "the Lord" often means God. Sometimes people use the word in a wider or playful way for someone who seems very powerful, controlling, or important. Across these uses, the idea is usually the same: someone above others in rank, power, or honor.
The term "lord" has a long history and is strongly linked with power, authority, and social rank. In medieval times, a lord was usually a noble who held land, often by inheritance or by grant from a king, and had control over the people living on that land. In that world of castles, kings, and sworn loyalty, a lord was someone with legal and social power.
But "lord" is not only a historical word. It is still used today as a formal title, especially in Britain, for members of the peerage and in some official roles. In stories and popular culture, it often appears in the names of powerful or high-ranking characters, which helps keep its old sense of status and command alive.
The word can also be used in a broader or figurative way. Someone might be described as a "lord of finance" or a "lord of the manor" to suggest wealth, control, or importance. It may even be used jokingly or critically for a person who acts proud, bossy, or above everyone else.
The word also has a very important religious use. "The Lord" is a common title for God in Christianity and is sometimes used in other religious settings as well. Because of this, the word can carry not just social power, but also deep spiritual respect. Whether it refers to an old landowner, a modern title, a powerful fictional figure, or God, "lord" usually points to someone seen as above others in authority, honor, or power.
Examples
- 1
Medieval landowner
In the Middle Ages, many farmers worked on land owned by a local lord.
- 2
Noble title
The king rewarded the soldier by making him a lord.
- 3
British title
Lord Harris spoke briefly in the House of Lords.
- UsageLord + name
a formal British title
- 4
Religious name
She prayed to the Lord before the operation.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Emotional exclamation
Oh Lord, I forgot to send the email.
- PhraseOh Lord
an expression of surprise, worry, or frustration
- 6
Uncertainty
Lord knows how long this repair will take.
- PhraseLord knows
no one really knows
- 7
Superiority
He started earning more money and began to lord it over his old friends.
- Patternlord it over someone
act as if you are better or more important than them
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- lordnounverb
Forms
- lordspluralnounverb
- lording-ing formverbnoun
- lordedpast tenseverbnoun