atheldom

English

Alternative forms

• etheldom

Etymology

From athel +‎ -dom. Cognate with Saterland Frisian Oadeldum (“nobility”), Dutch adeldom (“nobility”).

Noun

atheldom (uncountable)

1. (rare) The state or condition of being athel or noble; nobility.
   • 1996, Andrew Phillips, The rebirth of England and English:

     In wishing for an enlightened squirearchy, what Barnes really wanted was the restoration of the patriarchal 'atheldom' or nobility of Saxon 'folk' England - that which had perished at the Battle of Hastings, [...]