from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Vavasor \Vav"a*sor\, n. [OE. vavasour, OF. vavassor, vavassour,
F. vavasseur, LL. vavassor, probably contr. from vassus
vassorum vassal of the vassals. See {Vassal}.] (Feud. Law)
The vassal or tenant of a baron; one who held under a baron,
and who also had tenants under him; one in dignity next to a
baron; a title of dignity next to a baron. --Burrill. "A
worthy vavasour." --Chaucer. [Also written {vavasour},
{vavassor}, {valvasor}, etc.]
[1913 Webster]
Vavasours subdivide again to vassals, exchanging land
and cattle, human or otherwise, against fealty.
--Motley.
[1913 Webster]