BURGHMASTER Meaning and
Definition
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Burghmaster is a term that refers to a historical position or office in certain European countries, particularly in the Middle Ages and early modern era. Originally derived from the German term "Burgmeister," it was primarily used in the Low Countries (modern-day Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg) and parts of Germany.
A burghmaster, also known as a burgomaster or boroughmaster, was an official appointed or elected to govern a town or city. This position held significant administrative and judicial powers, and the burghmaster was responsible for overseeing the affairs and well-being of the urban community.
The role of a burghmaster varied depending on the specific region and legal system. In general, their duties included maintaining law and order, managing municipal finances, supervising public works, and representing the interests of the burgesses or citizens in matters concerning the town or city. They often presided over the town council and acted as the chief executive authority in local government.
The term "burghmaster" is associated with urban centers that were granted certain privileges and autonomy by feudal lords or monarchs. While the title has largely fallen out of use in modern times, it represents an important historical institution that played a crucial role in the governance, development, and prosperity of towns and cities during the medieval and early modern periods.
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One employed in the government of a city; chief magistrate in one of the large towns in Holland, &c.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for BURGHMASTER
- vurghmaster
- nurghmaster
- hurghmaster
- gurghmaster
- byrghmaster
- bhrghmaster
- bjrghmaster
- birghmaster
- b8rghmaster
- b7rghmaster
- bueghmaster
- budghmaster
- bufghmaster
- butghmaster
- bu5ghmaster
- bu4ghmaster
- burfhmaster
- burvhmaster
- burbhmaster
Etymology of BURGHMASTER
The word "Burghmaster" originated from Old High German and Middle Low German. The term consists of two parts: "burgh", which meant "town" or "fortress", and "master", which referred to the person in charge or the head of something. In this case, "Burghmaster" specifically referred to the head or mayor of a town or city. Over time, the term evolved and was adopted into English, retaining its basic meaning of a mayor or chief magistrate of a borough or city.
Similar spelling words for BURGHMASTER
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