DESPOTATS
\dˈɛspətˌe͡ɪts], \dˈɛspətˌeɪts], \d_ˈɛ_s_p_ə_t_ˌeɪ_t_s]\
Sort: Oldest first
-
Infirm soldiers, formerly charged with the office of removing the wounded from the field of battle: perhaps from desportator, 'one who bears away.' The class of Despotuts was introduced by Leo VI., at the commencement of the 9th century.
By Robley Dunglison
