In medieval times, the term "villein" was used to describe a type of serf or peasant who was bound to work on a lord's estate. However, there are several synonyms for the word "villein" that were used during that time. For example, the term "bondman" was frequently used to describe this type of servant. Similarly, the terms "serf," "peasant," and "thrall" were also used to describe villeins. Additionally, the term "churl" was used to describe a villein who was particularly disagreeable or rude. Overall, there were many different words used to describe the position of a villein in medieval society, each with its own connotations and implications.