Sordidel

Sordidel is a term that can refer to a few different things, primarily in the context of medieval history and warfare. In its most common usage, sordidel describes a type of light infantry soldier or mercenary found in various European armies during the Middle Ages. These soldiers were often armed with less expensive or less specialized weapons than their heavily armored counterparts, such as spears, swords, and sometimes bows. They were typically employed for scouting, skirmishing, and supporting more heavily armed troops. Their equipment was generally simpler, making them more mobile and less costly to equip and maintain.

The term sordidel also sometimes appears in older military treatises or historical accounts, where it might broadly encompass any non-noble combatant or auxiliary force. The exact nature and equipment of sordidel could vary significantly depending on the specific region, time period, and the particular army they served with. Some scholars suggest the term may derive from words related to "filth" or "lowliness," reflecting their position in the military hierarchy or their less sophisticated equipment. However, the primary understanding of sordidel in historical contexts relates to a class of foot soldiers vital to medieval military operations, providing essential tactical flexibility.