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Maid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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maid

[meษชd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

household

A maid is a female domestic servant who is employed to take care of the housekeeping duties in a household. Maids typically clean, cook, and perform other household tasks.

Synonyms

cleaning lady, domestic worker, housekeeper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
maid

Traditional term often referring to a female servant in a private home who performs household tasks. Can feel dated or imply a servile position.

  • The maid prepared the rooms for the guests
  • She has a maid who comes in twice a week
housekeeper

Typically refers to someone responsible for the overall management and maintenance of a household, possibly including supervisory duties over other staff.

  • The housekeeper ensures that everything runs smoothly
  • She is the head housekeeper of a large estate
domestic worker

Formal term encompassing anyone employed to perform domestic tasks, including cleaning, cooking, and childcare. More inclusive and professional.

  • She employs a domestic worker to help manage the house
  • Domestic workers are crucial in maintaining household order
cleaning lady

Informal term for a woman who cleans homes or offices. More casual and commonly used in everyday language.

  • We hired a cleaning lady to help keep the house tidy
  • The cleaning lady will come in the morning

Examples of usage

  • The maid cleaned the entire house before the guests arrived.
  • She hired a maid to help with the housework.
Context #2 | Noun

hotel

In a hotel setting, a maid is a person responsible for cleaning and maintaining guest rooms. Maids in hotels ensure that rooms are tidy, clean, and well-stocked with amenities.

Synonyms

chambermaid, housekeeper, room attendant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
maid

See above under 'maid'
housekeeper

A more formal term for someone, often a female, who manages and oversees household chores, potentially involving more organizational responsibilities.

  • The housekeeper ensures that every room in the mansion is spotless.
  • Mrs. Johnson has a housekeeper who manages the cleaning schedule and grocery shopping.
room attendant

Professional term generally used in the hospitality industry for someone responsible for cleaning and preparing guest rooms in hotels, motels, and resorts.

  • The room attendant was meticulous, leaving personalized notes for guests.
  • Room attendants play a crucial role in maintaining the hotel's reputation for cleanliness.
chambermaid

Specific term for a female worker responsible for cleaning and maintaining guest rooms in a hotel.

  • The chambermaid replaced the towels and restocked the toiletries.
  • He tipped the chambermaid for her excellent service during his stay at the hotel.

Examples of usage

  • The maid left fresh towels in the hotel room.
  • She tipped the maid for her excellent service.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'maid' comes from the Old English 'mรฆgden', which means young woman or girl.
  • In medieval times, maidens were young women of gentle birth and were often seen as pure and virtuous.
  • Maid servants were a common part of households from the feudal era, helping with various domestic tasks.

Pop Culture

  • The character of the maid has been featured in many popular movies and shows, often symbolizing either service or domestic chaos.
  • Classic literature often portrays maids as confidantes to their employers, providing comic relief or wisdom in times of trouble.
  • In fairy tales, maids sometimes transform into princesses or play crucial roles in the protagonist's journey.

Employment and Society

  • Today, many professional maids work in hotels and private homes, often providing essential services in tourism and hospitality industries.
  • Maid services have evolved to include specialized tasks like deep cleaning, organizing, and even caregiving in modern households.
  • In some cultures, the role of a maid is highly respected, while in others, it reflects socio-economic disparities.

Psychology

  • The image of a maid can evoke feelings of nostalgia or comfort for many people, often tied to memories of childhood or family.
  • Research shows that domestic helpers, like maids, can experience stress from societal expectations and sometimes lack recognition for their work.
  • Maid-themed roles in narratives often challenge traditional gender roles, showcasing women in diverse positions of power or vulnerability.

Literature

  • Classic novels frequently explore the dynamics between maids and their employers, revealing social hierarchies and personal relationships.
  • In Shakespeare's time, maids often appeared as clever, resourceful characters who outsmarted their masters, adding humor to the plots.
  • Contemporary literature sometimes features maids as protagonists, providing a fresh perspective on class and identity.

Origin of 'maid'

The word 'maid' has its origins in the Middle English word 'mayde', which comes from the Old English 'mรฆgden'. The term originally referred to a young unmarried woman. Over time, the meaning of 'maid' evolved to include a female servant or domestic worker. The role of a maid has been prevalent in households for centuries, with maids playing a crucial role in maintaining cleanliness and order in homes.

See also: maiden, mermaid.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,667 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.