Menially: meaning, definitions and examples
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menially
[ ˈmiːniəlli ]
subservient role
Menially refers to work or tasks that are characterized by a low status or inferiority in nature, often associated with manual labor or menial jobs. This term indicates that the work does not require specialized skills or qualifications. Menial tasks are usually repetitive and can be perceived as unskilled or tedious. The word carries a connotation of being servile or subordinate, emphasizing the lack of honor or esteem generally associated with such roles.
Synonyms
humbly, servilely, subserviently
Examples of usage
- She worked menially at the local diner.
- Many people accept menially paid jobs to make ends meet.
- He was hired for menially tasks in the factory.
Etymology
The term 'menially' derives from the root word 'menial', which originated from the Middle French word 'menial', meaning 'of the household'. This French term is rooted in the Latin 'manuālis', which comes from 'manus', meaning 'hand'. Historically, menial work was associated with domestic duties and labor performed by servants in a household, emphasizing their lower social position. Over time, the meaning of 'menial' broadened to include any work considered unskilled or of low status, often involving routine or manual tasks. The adverb form 'menially' emerged to describe actions carried out in a subservient or subordinate manner, reflecting this historical context of labor relations and social stratification.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #42,583, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.