Learn English – Does “liege” mean master or servant

ambiguitydictionariesmeaningword-usage

Searching online, I see the two definitions for liege (noun) given by Merriam-Webster

  1. a: a vassal bound to feudal service and allegiance
    b: a loyal subject

  2. a feudal superior to whom allegiance and service are due

So, how are you supposed to identify which meaning being referred when you say "My liege"? Or is my understanding flawed in some way?

Best Answer

It is the second definition listed, therefore less used. I don't believe it is ambiguous in common usage. But as @JanusBahsJacquet says, context is king.

To be absolutely unambiguous, you can use "liege lord" and "liegeman" to refer up and down the allegiance train respectively.