drótt

Drótt is an Old Norse word that translates to "troop," "band," or "company." It was commonly used in medieval Scandinavian societies to refer to a group of warriors, often serving a lord or king. The drótt was a significant part of the military and social structure of the Viking Age and the subsequent period. Members of a drótt were typically bound by loyalty and oath to their leader, receiving protection, sustenance, and potential plunder in return for their service. This military retinue played a crucial role in warfare, political maneuvering, and the maintenance of power for chieftains and rulers. The concept of the drótt highlights the importance of personal relationships and sworn loyalty in the organization of early Scandinavian society, extending beyond mere military function to encompass a broader sense of community and shared purpose among its members. The word itself carries connotations of a close-knit, loyal, and formidable fighting force.