Miller: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is neutral and widely used when referring to a person who operates a mill, regardless of gender.

• The miller grinds the grain into flour daily.
• As a miller, John was well-respected in the village.

An archaic and less common term, often used historically to refer specifically to a male miller. It may be encountered in old texts or stories but is not used in modern conversation.

• The millsman worked hard from dawn till dusk.
• In the 18th century, the millsman played a crucial role in the local economy.

This term is outdated and rarely used today. It specifically refers to a female miller but may be perceived as unnecessary or gender-biased.

• The milleress worked tirelessly to ensure the mill ran smoothly.
• In the olden days, a milleress was a common sight in rural communities.

Used broadly in daily conversation or writing to describe anyone who works in a mill, similar to the general use of 'miller'. Context often depends on specific regional or cultural usage.

• Tom's father is a miller, keeping the family's tradition alive.
• As a miller, she felt proud to supply the community with fresh flour.

Used to refer specifically to a character from Geoffrey Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales,' who is a bawdy and raucous miller. This reference is usually literary or academic.

• In our literature class, we discussed Chaucer's Miller and his crude sense of humor.
• Chaucer's Miller is known for telling an earthy and humorous tale.