Servants: meaning, definitions and examples

Mostly used in historical contexts or stories about the past, where people were employed primarily for household chores and personal service. The word holds a somewhat formal and old-fashioned connotation.

• The lord of the manor was attended by numerous servants.
• Servants scurried about, preparing the hall for the grand ball.

A modern and more formal term used to refer to someone employed to help with household tasks. This term is neutral and widely accepted in contemporary settings.

• She hired a domestic worker to help with the cleaning and laundry.
• Domestic workers have rights and protections under the law.

Commonly used to describe someone who serves or assists in a professional or specific capacity, such as at events, concerts, or in healthcare settings.

• The flight attendant showed us to our seats.
• A personal attendant helped the elderly man throughout the day.

Refers to a group of workers employed collectively in a household, often in larger or wealthier homes. It's a general term that covers various roles within the home.

• The household staff included a cook, a gardener, and a maid.
• Managing the household staff required excellent organizational skills.

An older term referring to a person bound to service without wages. Often used in historical or religious contexts.

• In ancient times, a bondservant served their master for a set period of years

A person who is the legal property of another and is forced to obey them. This term has strong negative connotations and is associated with historical and modern issues of human rights abuses.

• Slaves were often treated harshly and had no personal freedoms

A person or country in a subordinate position to another. Often used in historical contexts, especially in relation to feudal systems.

• During the Middle Ages, a vassal pledged loyalty to a lord in exchange for protection and land