For forms see LORD sb. [OE. hláford-dóm, f. hláford LORD sb. + -DOM.] † a. The position of being lord, lordship (obs.). b. nonce-use. The state of things characterized by the existence of lords.
c. 897. K. Ælfred, Gregory’s Past., xvii. 121. Se ðe on lareowes onlicnesse ða ðenenga ðæs ealdordomes ʓecierð to hlaforddome.
c. 1200. Ormin, 11851. Te laþe gast Aȝȝ eggeþþ hise þeowess … To ȝeornenn after laferrddom.
c. 1230. Hali Meid., 11. Is al to muchel lauerddom & meistrie þrinne þis cunde imerred tus.
1824. New Monthly Mag., X. 521. There is no country … in which the system of lord-dom and servility is so manifestly supported as in England.
