An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

1. A person who has authority, control, or power over others; a master, chief, or ruler.
   

2. A person who exercises authority from property rights; an owner of land, houses, etc.
   

3. A feudal superior; the proprietor of a manor (Dictionary.com).

Etymology (EN): M.E. lord, loverd, O.E. hlâford, hlâfweard, literally “loaf-keeper,” from hlaf “bread, loaf” + weard “keeper, guardian.”

Etymology (PE): Xâvand, contraction of xodâvand “lord, master, god,” from xodâ “lord, master,” → God, + suffix -vand.