Etymology
The word "indentured" is derived from the noun "indenture," which originally referred to a legal document sealed with a notched edge that could be broken apart for identification.
Meaning
"Indentured" means "bound by a contract to work for a certain period of time in return for payment of a debt or other obligation."
Origin
The concept of indentured servitude originated in feudal England, where peasants were often bound to work for their lord in exchange for protection and land. During the 17th and 18th centuries, indentured servitude became a common practice in the English colonies in North America and the Caribbean.
European laborers, known as indentured servants, signed contracts to work for a specific term (usually 4-7 years) in exchange for free passage to the colonies. Once in the colonies, they were assigned to work for a "master" who provided them with food, clothing, and housing. In return, the servants agreed to work diligently and to obey the master's rules.
Indentured servitude provided a source of labor for the development of the colonial economy, particularly in agriculture and the production of tobacco and sugar. However, the system often involved harsh working conditions and limited freedom for the servants. Over time, it was gradually replaced by other forms of labor, such as slavery and free labor.
Etymology The word indenture originates from the Middle English term endenture which
Etymology The word indenture originates from the Middle English term endenture which
Etymology The word indentured is derived from the noun indenture which originally re
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Etymology Old French endenture from dent tooth ure action result Latin
Etymology Middle English entenden from Anglo Norman French entendre from Medieval La
Etymology Latin obligare to bind to fasten to make obligatory Proto Indo European
Etymology The word oblige comes from the Latin word obligare which means to bind
Etymology Old English bindan Proto Germanic bindan Proto Indo European s bhendh
Etymology The word servant derives from the Old French word serjant meaning attend
Etymology The word fantasy is derived from the Greek word phantasia which means ap
