Title of Yeoman

Hello Listers
I have recently joined the list. My present research concerns the village of Tirley and its surrounds in the County of Gloucester. I wondered if I might call on the members of the list to help me understand what a yeoman was and meant during the early 1600/1700's. Anything would help but I particularly want to know if there a definition in terms of land owned/leased for yeoman. Also I have read that the title of yeoman passed from father to eldest son, is this true?
Many thanks.
Zeli
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