yeoman
Pronunciation
Noun
B1 Intermediate
Quick answer
Historically, a farmer who owned and worked a modest amount of land, ranking below the gentry.
Synonyms and antonyms
Synonyms
farmer
freeholder
Usage notes
The phrase "yeoman's service" still survives today to praise solid, unglamorous hard work.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "The _____'s small but productive farm had been in his family for three generations."
Answer: yeoman
In your own words, what does "yeoman" mean?
Historically, a farmer who owned and worked a modest amount of land, ranking below the gentry.