Atteign

**Atteign** refers to the historical practice of a lord or noble granting a tenant or vassal the right to use a piece of land, typically in exchange for military service, labor, or other obligations. The term originates from the Old French word *ateindre*, meaning "to reach" or "to attain," reflecting the idea of achieving or securing a right over land. This concept was central to feudal systems in medieval Europe, where land tenure was a cornerstone of social and economic structures.

Under atteign, the land granted was often held in return for specific duties, such as military service in exchange for fiefs or agricultural labor for demesne lands. The relationship between the lord and the tenant was formalized through legal and customary agreements, sometimes recorded in charters or oral traditions. While the term itself is less commonly used today, its principles influenced later systems of land ownership and feudal obligations.

Atteign was distinct from other forms of landholding, such as freehold or leasehold, as it was tied to personal loyalty and hierarchical relationships rather than purely economic transactions. Over time, as feudal systems declined and legal frameworks evolved, the concept of atteign was gradually replaced by more standardized property laws. Today, it serves primarily as a historical term in studies of medieval governance, land rights, and social hierarchies.