Housemaid: meaning, definitions and examples
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housemaid
[ ˈhaʊs.meɪd ]
domestic worker
A housemaid is a female domestic worker responsible for household tasks and duties within a residence. This includes chores such as cleaning, cooking, laundry, and sometimes childcare. Housemaids are often employed by families or individuals to maintain the cleanliness and organization of the home. The term generally implies a level of service or assistance within private spaces. Employment conditions and roles can vary widely depending on the household's needs and the agreement made between the employer and the maid.
Synonyms
cleaning lady, domestic helper, housekeeper.
Examples of usage
- The housemaid dusted the furniture every morning.
- She hired a housemaid to help with the chores.
- The housemaid prepared dinner for the family.
- Many wealthy families employed housemaids in the early 20th century.
Etymology
The term 'housemaid' originates from the combination of 'house' and 'maid.' The word 'house' comes from the Old English 'hus,' which has parallels in other Germanic languages and relates to shelter and dwelling. 'Maid' derives from the Old English 'mægden,' which referred to a young woman or girl. Historically, housemaids were often young women who worked in affluent households, performing various domestic chores that allowed families to maintain a clean and organized living environment. The role of the housemaid became particularly prominent during the Victorian era, where middle and upper-class families often employed several domestic workers to manage their households. As social structures evolved and the expectations of women's roles changed throughout the 20th century, the prevalence and nature of housemaids also transformed, leading into modern interpretations of domestic work.