galleyslave (n.)
Pronunciation: /ˈɡældʒislāve/
Etymology:
Meaning:
A person who was forced to row on a galley, a type of ancient or medieval ship with multiple oars, typically as a punishment for a crime or during wartime.
Origin:
The term "galleyslave" originated from the practice of using criminals or captured enemies as rowers on galleys. In ancient Greece and Rome, convicted criminals and war prisoners were often forced to serve as rowers on naval ships, including galleys. This practice continued throughout the Middle Ages and into the early modern period.
Galleyslaves were typically chained to their oars and subjected to harsh conditions. They often suffered from malnutrition, disease, and exhaustion. The harsh treatment and conditions experienced by galleyslaves made the term synonymous with extreme hardship and suffering.
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