Frankleyne

[L. Lat. franchilanus, q. v.] In old English law. A substantial householder; a freeman or gentleman. Fortescue de L. L. Angliae, c. 29, and note (m). In modern spelling, a franklin. Franclaine (q. v.) is another form of this word, used in the note last referred to; where Chaucer's description of the Franklin is given at length. And see Francling.