Clerks: meaning, definitions and examples
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clerks
[ klɜːrks ]
workplace roles
Clerks are individuals who perform administrative, record-keeping, and clerical functions in various types of organizations. They typically handle various tasks such as filing, data entry, answering phones, and managing correspondence. In many cases, clerks act as the first point of contact for clients and customers in an office environment.
Synonyms
administrator, assistant, record keeper, secretary
Examples of usage
- The clerk processed my application quickly.
- She works as a sales clerk at the local department store.
- The court clerk filed all the necessary documents.
- He has been a postal clerk for five years.
Word origin
The word 'clerk' originates from the Latin word 'clericus', which means 'clergyman' or 'clerk'. In medieval times, clerks were often educated men who could read and write, as literacy was rare. They were usually employed by religious institutions or the state to handle administrative tasks, such as record-keeping and communication. Over time, the term expanded to include various types of administrative roles across different sectors, disconnecting from its religious connotations. The evolution reflects the growing importance of clerical work in the administrative processes of governments and businesses as societies became more complex. The modern usage of the word encompasses a wide range of clerical positions, which are vital for the smooth operation of organizations.