The word “Lord” was derived from the Old English word “hlāfweard”, or breadwinner as well as the Old Norse word “dróttinn”. This word first appeared in the epic Beowulf as “hlaford” with a definition of “One who has dominion over others as his subject, or to whom service is due. A master, ruler”. Of course no one knows when Beowulf was written, but lord was used to show deference. Over time the meaning of “Lord” drifted from leader to a title of respected individuals, such as successful business magnates. In 1581 “Lord” was used in a similar way to the modern word landlord, “Like two tenants in one house belonging to seuerall lordes”. Later in 1681 when the most used definition for lord was of “a feudal superior” there was a proverb “drunk as a Lord,” showing the common man’s disdain for the excesses of the upper class. This feeling progressed even further in 1751 where disfigured individuals were mockingly called lords “His pupil.. was.. on account of his hump, distinguished by the title of his lord.” The change in usage was perhaps a not so subtle jab at the inbred aristocrats in power. No worries though, because it gets worse when Listener writes in 1967 that “When you need the House of Lords, it’s through there.” During the 1900’s, as people grew disillusioned by politicians, the ‘House of Lords” was used as slang for a lavatory, thus revealing the crappy reputation of politicians during this period.