Scullery: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'scullery' comes from the Middle English term 'scullery', which originally meant a place for scullers or dishwashers.
• It is derived from the Old French 'escuelerie', which relates to fetching or cleaning up dishes.
• The term has been in use since the 14th century, reflecting the importance of this space in household management.

Historical Usage

• In grand homes of the past, sculleries were essential for handling the many utensils and crockery that came from feasts.
• Not just a cleaning space, sculleries also served as storage for kitchen supplies and utensils in large estates.
• With the advent of modern plumbing and changes in cooking practices, the traditional scullery has evolved into what we now call utility rooms or kitchen pantries.

Literature

• Sculleries often appear in classic literature, depicting the class distinctions in households by showcasing where help worked.
• In Charles Dickens' novels, sculleries featured as hidden realms of household activity, emphasizing the hardworking nature of domestic help.
• The depiction of sculleries can be found in works reflecting societal norms, often hinting at the unseen labor behind household comforts.

Cultural Significance

• In many cultures, the scullery symbolizes the behind-the-scenes effort required to maintain domestic life.
• Historically, many households employed staff to manage sculleries, highlighting social stratification in availability and recognition of domestic help.
• Modern adaptations have turned these spaces into trendy laundry rooms, reflecting changing views on domestic work.

Architecture

• The architectural design of sculleries often aimed for efficiency, with separate sinks and storage to manage the mess created during cooking.
• In many colonial homes, sculleries were designed to be on the periphery of the main kitchen, enabling better airflow and cleanliness.
• Contemporary homes sometimes integrate sculleries into open-plan kitchen designs, showcasing a blend of tradition and modernity.

At rank #28,533, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 28530 unleashing
• 28531 protractor
• 28532 vindictiveness
• 28533 scullery
• 28534 shaming
• 28535 sciatica
• 28536 rampage
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