Clerks: meaning, definitions and examples
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clerks
[klɜːrks ]
Definition
Context #1 | Noun
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.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from the Latin term 'clericus,' which means 'clergyman,' showing a connection to writing and record-keeping.
- In medieval times, clerks were often associated with the church and education, as they were among the few who could read and write.
- With the development of commerce and bureaucracy in the 18th and 19th centuries, the role of clerks expanded significantly in both the public and private sectors.
Pop Culture
- 'Clerks' is a famous indie film directed by Kevin Smith in 1994, focusing on the everyday lives of two convenience store clerks.
- The character Dante from 'Clerks' embodies the struggles and humor found in retail jobs, resonating with many who have worked in similar roles.
- The film’s success helped popularize the idea of 'slacker' culture in the 1990s, with clerks becoming a symbol of youthful disillusionment.
Literature
- In George Orwell's '1984,' the protagonist works in a department that can be likened to a clerk's role, dealing with endless records and paperwork.
- Many novels depict clerks as either the underappreciated heroes or the comical side characters, illustrating their everyday struggles and observations.
- The role of clerks in literature often reflects broader themes, such as the nature of work, bureaucracy, and social dynamics.
Technology
- With the advancement of technology, clerks' duties have evolved; many now utilize software that helps manage records and customer information more efficiently.
- Automation and AI are increasingly taking over clerical tasks, leading to discussions about the future of clerks in the workforce.
- Digital clerks, such as chatbots, are now common in customer service, showcasing a shift from traditional roles to virtual support.
Psychology
- Studies show that clerks often experience job-related stress due to high customer interactions and multitasking demands.
- The social interactions that clerks engage in can lead to both job satisfaction and burnout, depending on the work environment.
- Psychological research indicates that clerks often develop strong coping mechanisms and interpersonal skills through their everyday interactions with customers.