Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: per fas aut nefas
A yeoman is a person who owns and works on land, usually making a living from it. In the past, a yeoman was also someone who worked in a royal or noble household or held land worth 40 shillings per year. They were considered to be honest and law-abiding citizens who could serve on juries and vote for certain officials.
Definition: A yeoman is a historical term that can refer to several different things:
For example, a yeoman in the 18th century might have been a farmer who owned a small plot of land and was able to vote and serve on juries because of his status as a free-holder. In the U.S. Navy, a yeoman might be responsible for keeping records and performing administrative tasks.
Overall, the term yeoman refers to someone who is a respectable member of society, but not necessarily wealthy or of noble birth.