BURGHER Meaning and
Definition
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A "burgher" is a term that primarily refers to an inhabitant or citizen of a town or city, especially one who has certain rights and privileges by virtue of being a member of a specific urban community. The term typically originated from medieval Europe, particularly during the Middle Ages, when cities began to develop as centers of trade and commerce. The status of being a burgher often carried with it a range of rights and responsibilities, which distinguished these individuals from peasants or rural dwellers.
In a broader sense, "burgher" can also signify someone belonging to the middle class or bourgeois society. This perspective emphasizes their social and economic standing, highlighting their potential prosperity and involvement in urban industries or professions. The term may also be used more broadly to denote a citizen or member of a municipality, irrespective of social or economic background.
Additionally, "burgher" can be synonymous with "citizen" in certain contexts, particularly in historic or legal contexts. It can refer to someone who has legally established and maintained residency within a particular municipal jurisdiction and is entitled to civic rights and protections. This definition underscores the civic and legal aspects of the term, emphasizing the bond between an individual and their urban community.
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The freeman or inhabitant of a burgh; one of a religious sect in Scotland.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for BURGHER
Etymology of BURGHER
The word "burgher" is derived from the Middle Dutch word "burgher" or "burgheer", which means "inhabitant of a town" or "town dweller". It originated in the 14th century in the Low Countries (present-day Belgium and the Netherlands) during the medieval period. The term was used to refer to citizens who had certain privileges and rights within a town or city, such as the right to participate in its administration and the responsibility to defend it. Over time, the word "burgher" spread to other languages and regions, including English, and its meaning expanded to include a broader range of individuals who lived in urban areas and were actively involved in local affairs.
Similar spelling words for BURGHER
- burgrave,
- burgrass,
- barge,
- burghart,
- Burgard,
- burggraf,
- buerger,
- budge,
- burger,
- Buroker,
- Burghardt,
- bugler,
- bursera.
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