in our ancient customs, signified a tenant or feudatory; or perfon who vowed fidelity and homage to a lord, on account of fome land, &c. held of him in fee; alfo a slave or servant, and eſpecially a domestic of a prince.—Vassallus is said to be quæf inferior socius; as the vassal is inferior to his master, and muft serve him; and yet he is in a manner his companion, becaufe each of them is obliged to the other. See FEODAL System.