virgate

virgate¹ Definition

vir·gate (vʉr′git, -gāt′)

noun

a former English unit of land measure varying greatly in size, but most commonly equal to about 30 acres

Etymology: ML virgata (terrae) < L virga, twig (see verge): used as transl. of OE gierdland, yardland

virgate² Definition

vir·gate (-git, -gāt′)

adjective

Etymology: ModL virgatus < L, made of twigs < virga, twig: see verge

virgate Usage Examples

Converse of object

hold: One, who was able to alienate his land, held two virgates at Bedfont ( 77 ).
have: Of the other villeins, 12 had ½ hide each, 20 had one virgate, and the other 40 held ½ virgate each.

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