A retinue (O. Fr. retenue, from retenir, Lat. retenere, hold back, retain) is a body of persons "retained" in the service of a noble or royal personage, a suite of "retainers." Such retainers were not in the domestic service of their lord, but wore his "livery" and claimed his protection. They were a source of trouble and abuse in the 15th and early 16th century (see maintenance).
Sometimes used in the context meaning the supporters/followers of a Middle Ages knight.
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