Clanship

/ˈklænʃɪp/ noun

Definition

The system of organization, loyalty, or identity based on clan membership; the state of belonging to a clan.

Etymology

From 'clan' (Scottish Gaelic 'clann') plus suffix '-ship' (state/condition/relationship). The suffix '-ship' appears in English words like 'friendship,' 'leadership,' denoting abstract relationships and statuses.

Kelly Says

Clanship in the Scottish Highlands created a parallel legal system to English common law—clan chiefs held judicial power, collected taxes, and commanded armies, making clanship rival to monarchy in some regions.

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