purveyance etymology

Etymology

The word "purveyance" derives from the Old French word "pourveance," which means "provision" or "procurement." It is ultimately derived from the Latin word "providere," meaning "to foresee" or to "provide."

Meaning

Purveyance refers to the act of obtaining or providing goods or services, often for a particular purpose or event. Historically, it was used to describe the system by which the royal household and other privileged individuals obtained supplies, such as food, drink, and other necessities.

Origin

The concept of purveyance dates back to medieval Europe. In the feudal system, peasants and other low-ranking citizens were obligated to provide certain goods and services to their lords. This included providing food, lodging, and transportation for the lord and his retinue when they traveled.

Purveyance became increasingly formalized under the Norman kings of England. The king had the power to issue purveyance warrants, which authorized his officials to procure supplies from specific individuals or towns. This system gave the king and his household access to a wide range of goods and services, often at below-market prices.

Over time, purveyance became a source of abuse and resentment. Peasants and merchants were often forced to provide goods and services at exorbitant prices or without fair compensation. This led to a number of laws and regulations designed to limit the abuses of purveyance.

In the early modern period, purveyance gradually declined as the monarchies of Europe became more centralized and the market economy developed. However, the term "purveyance" continues to be used in a more general sense to refer to the act of obtaining or providing goods or services.

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