Lords are individuals who hold a high rank in the social hierarchy, often associated with nobility or aristocracy. They typically own large estates and have significant influence over the land and people living on it. In many cultures, lords were granted their titles by a monarch, such as a king or queen, and they played important roles in governance and military leadership. In historical contexts, lords often had responsibilities, such as providing protection and justice to their subjects. They might also be involved in the feudal system, where they exchanged land for loyalty and service from vassals. This relationship shaped much of medieval society and its structure.