Servant: meaning, definitions and examples

Generally used in historical or formal contexts to refer to someone employed to perform household duties.

• In the 18th century, many wealthy families had several servants
• The lord had his personal servant

A more contemporary and formal term for someone who performs domestic tasks such as cleaning, cooking, and childcare. It is more neutral and professional.

• The family employed a domestic worker to help with the household chores
• Domestic workers are often key to maintaining large households

Commonly used to refer to someone who assists or serves in a specific role or location, such as an event or a specific place like a parking lot or hospital.

• The museum attendant guided us through the exhibition
• The parking attendant helped me find a space

Specifically refers to someone who is responsible for managing the cleanliness and order of a household or establishment.

• The housekeeper ensures that every room in the hotel is spotless
• She worked as a housekeeper for a wealthy family

Typically used in historical or formal settings to describe someone who works for another person, often in a household. It can imply a lower social status.

• The king's servant brought him his meals every day.
• In Victorian times, households often had many servants.

Used to describe someone who supports or admires a particular person, often without implying formal employment. Commonly used in social media contexts or when talking about devotees.

• He has over a million followers on Instagram.
• The philosopher had many followers who spread his teachings.

Refers to someone who works for a company or organization and receives payment. It is the most neutral and widely-used term in modern professional settings.

• The company hired fifty new employees this year.
• As an employee, you have certain rights and responsibilities.

Often used in a derogatory or humorous way to describe someone who obeys orders unquestioningly, usually for a powerful person. It can imply a lack of individuality or self-respect.

• The villain sent his minions to do his dirty work.
• He treats his assistants like minions, making them do all the menial tasks.

This word is often used to describe a person employed to perform domestic duties, but it can also be used in a broader sense to refer to someone who serves others, often in a humble or subservient manner. It can have a negative connotation if used to demean someone's role.

• The loyal servant prepared the master's meal.
• He was a humble servant of the community.

This word usually refers to a planned series of future events or performances, but it can also refer to coded instructions for computers. It is neutral and often used in educational, technological, or entertainment contexts.

• The evening program includes a series of lectures on climate change.
• She wrote a program to sort the data automatically.

This term is commonly used in various contexts to describe a series of actions or steps taken to achieve a particular outcome. It is typically neutral and can be applied to systems, workflows, and even biological functions.

• The process of baking bread involves several key steps.
• We are currently in the process of updating our software.

This term is used to describe a device or implement, particularly one held in the hand, used to carry out a particular function. It's also used figuratively to describe a means to an end or an asset that can be used to accomplish something. The word itself is neutral, but context will determine its connotation.

• A hammer is an essential tool for a carpenter.
• Google Analytics is a powerful tool for digital marketers.