1. Plural of goodman; men of good character or reputation, especially in historical or formal contexts.
Usage: archaic or historical; often used as a respectful form of address or title for men of standing in a community
2. Plural of goodman; male heads of households or farmers, especially in medieval or early modern England.
Usage: archaic; historical social rank

Examples

• The goodmen of the village gathered to discuss the harvest.
• In Shakespeare's time, goodmen were respected members of the community.
• The goodmen and their wives attended the parish meeting.
• These goodmen owned modest farms and contributed to local governance.
• The charter was signed by the goodmen of the town.