Ceorl
A Dictionary of Law · Henry Campbell Black · 1891
A Dictionary of Law
In Anglo Saxonlaw. The freemen were divided into two classes, —thanes and ceorls. The thanes were the proprietors of the soil, which was entirely at their disposal. The eeorls were men personally free, but possessing no landed property. Guizot, Rep. Govt. A tenant at will of free condition, who held land of the thane on condition of paying rent or services.
Cowell.
A freeman of inferior rank oceupied in husbandry.
Spelman.