BOYARS Meaning and
Definition
-
Boyars are a historical and socio-political class of noble landowners and aristocrats in Czarist Russia, particularly during the period of the 10th to the 17th century. Derived from the old Slavic term "bojarin," meaning "warrior," boyars occupied a high social status and enjoyed considerable influence and power.
Typically, boyars were hereditary members of the upper nobility, possessing vast land estates and significant wealth. They played an essential role in advising and serving the ruling monarch, often serving as ministers or holding other high-ranking governmental positions. Furthermore, boyars constituted the highest level of the feudal hierarchy, with their estates encompassing large territories and serfs.
In addition to their political significance, boyars also held considerable cultural and social authority. Their status was acknowledged through distinctive privileges, such as the right to wear luxurious clothing, bear arms, and even kneel before the tsar—a gesture of respect that was reserved exclusively for them.
Over time, the power of the boyars fluctuated, influenced by changing monarchs and political dynamics. Although their importance diminished during the reign of Peter the Great, who aimed to centralize power, boyars continued to retain their noble status until the abolition of the Russian nobility following the Russian Revolution in 1917.
Today, while the institution of the boyars no longer exists, their influence and legacy remain an integral part of Russian history and culture, symbolizing the aristocratic class that shaped the country's past.
Common Misspellings for BOYARS
- boyers
- boyrs
- boiors
- boiars
- voyars
- noyars
- hoyars
- goyars
- biyars
- bkyars
- blyars
- bpyars
- b0yars
- b9yars
- bogars
- bohars
- bouars
- bo7ars
- bo6ars
- boyzrs
Etymology of BOYARS
The word "boyars" derives from the Old East Slavic word "boyarin" (боярин), which means "warrior" or "nobleman". It is derived from the Slavic word "boj" (бой), meaning "battle" or "war". In ancient Slavic societies, boyars were considered the highest-ranking nobles and played significant roles in politics, military affairs, and administration. The term later spread to various Slavic languages and was particularly used in the context of the Russian feudal system.
Similar spelling words for BOYARS
- bores,
- borax,
- byars,
- borsh,
- Borja,
- borsch,
- borage,
- boyers,
- boros,
- Boris,
- bowers,
- bourse,
- borago.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
