1. the process of converting a society, economy, or political system into a feudal structure characterized by the relationship between lords and vassals
Usage: historical; formal
2. the gradual adoption or imposition of feudal characteristics, customs, or hierarchies in a previously non-feudal context
Usage: historical; academic

Examples

• The feudalization of Western Europe occurred gradually after the fall of the Roman Empire.
• Historians debate the causes and timeline of feudalization in medieval societies.
• The feudalization process involved the fragmentation of central authority into local fiefdoms.
• Economic feudalization led to the development of the manor system.
• Some scholars argue that feudalization was a response to the need for local security and protection.