GUILDRY Meaning and
Definition
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Guildry refers to a historical term that is derived from the Old English word "gild," which means "association" or "brotherhood." It denotes an organized body or society of individuals who are engaged in a particular craft or trade and have come together to protect their mutual interests and privileges.
In medieval times, guildries played a crucial role in the economic and social structure of towns and cities. They were often formed by artisans, merchants, or workers practicing the same trade. The main objectives of a guildry were to maintain high standards of craftsmanship, regulate the quality of goods produced, establish fair pricing, ensure the welfare and protection of its members, and oversee apprenticeships and training within the trade.
Guildries had considerable influence in their respective communities, often possessing legal and administrative powers granted by local authorities. They could control access to the trade, determine membership qualifications, and enforce rules and regulations. As guildries offered support and guidance to their members, they also fostered a sense of community and camaraderie.
The governance of a guildry typically involved elected officials or officers, such as a master or provost, who managed the affairs and represented the interests of the guildry. Meetings and assemblies were held regularly, providing a platform to discuss matters related to the trade, resolve disputes, and make collective decisions that affected all members.
Although their prominence gradually declined with the advent of industrialization and centralized governmental control, guildries played a significant role in shaping the economic and social fabric of medieval society. They contributed to the development of expertise, the establishment of trade standards, and the creation of a sense of identity within specific crafts or trades.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for GUILDRY
- gildre
- gildry
- Gildrey
- fuildry
- vuildry
- buildry
- huildry
- yuildry
- tuildry
- gyildry
- ghildry
- gjildry
- giildry
- g8ildry
- g7ildry
- guuldry
- gujldry
- gukldry
- guoldry
- gu9ldry
Etymology of GUILDRY
The term "Guildry" originally comes from the Old English word "gyld", which means "gold" or "money". In medieval times, guilds were associations of craftsmen or merchants who worked in the same trade or industry. These guilds often had financial resources, and the term "guildry" came to be used to refer to the collective wealth and financial administration of a guild. Over time, the term was more broadly applied to the body or members of a guild, and it continues to be used in certain contexts in Scotland and other regions.
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