Glebeless

/ˈɡliːbləs/ adjective

Definition

Without gleba; describing a parish church or clerical position that has no associated land or property income.

Etymology

Formed from 'glebe' plus the suffix '-less' (meaning 'without'), creating a descriptor for benefices lacking the traditional property endowments.

Kelly Says

A 'glebeless' benefice meant a clergyman had prestige but little income—these positions were often given to younger sons or poor scholars, making them socially awkward positions in the church hierarchy.

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