Meaning of the word chiefdom in English

What does chiefdom mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

chiefdom

US /ˈtʃiːf.dəm/
UK /ˈtʃiːf.dəm/
"chiefdom" picture

Noun

a form of hierarchical political organization in non-industrial societies usually based on kinship, and in which formal leadership is monopolized by the legitimate senior members of select families

Example:
The island was divided into several powerful chiefdoms.
Anthropologists study the transition from tribes to chiefdoms.