/lawrd"ship/ , n.
1. ( often cap. ) a term of respect used when speaking of or to certain noblemen (usually prec. by his or your ).
2. the state or dignity of a lord.
3. the authority or power of a lord.
4. the domain of a lord.
5. Brit. ( often cap. ) a term of respect used when speaking of or to judges (usually prec. by his or your ).
[ bef. 900; ME; OE hlafordscipe. See LORD, -SHIP ]