servant etymology

Etymology:

The word "servant" derives from the Old French word "serjant," meaning "attendant, servant, or subordinate." This, in turn, is derived from the Latin word "serviens," meaning "serving, attending."

Meaning:

A servant is a person employed to perform domestic or personal services for another person, usually on a regular basis. Servants typically undertake tasks such as cleaning, cooking, laundry, childcare, and running errands.

Origin:

The concept of servants has its roots in ancient times, where slavery was widespread. In feudal societies, serfs were bound to their lord and were required to provide labor and services in exchange for protection. Over time, the institution of slavery gradually declined and was replaced by paid servants.

In the 19th century, the Industrial Revolution led to urbanization and a growing middle class. The demand for domestic servants increased significantly, as many middle-class families sought to maintain a certain level of affluence and convenience. However, by the mid-20th century, there was a decline in the number of servants employed due to technological advancements and changing social norms.

Today, the role of servants varies across different cultures and socioeconomic levels. In some societies, domestic servants are still common, while in others, they are primarily employed for specific occasions or tasks.

servant relate terms

  • sergeant

    Etymology The word sergeant comes from the Old French word sergent which itself is

  • serve

    Etymology From Middle English serven from Old French servir from Latin servīre to

  • servant

    Etymology The word servant derives from the Old French word serjant meaning attend

  • serve

    Etymology From Middle English serven from Old French servir from Latin servīre to

  • retainer

    Etymology The word retainer comes from the Middle English word retenour which is der

  • vassal

    Etymology Old French vassal Late Latin vassallus servant household serf Possibly fr

  • valet

    Etymology The word valet is derived from the Old French word valet which itself come

  • thrall

    Etymology The word thrall originates from the Old Norse word þræll which meant sl

  • seneschal

    Etymology Middle English seneschal from Anglo Norman French seneschal from Old Frenc

  • deacon

    Etymology Middle English dekene Old French diacre Latin diaconus Greek διάκον

  • domestic

    Etymology The word domestic comes from the Latin word domus meaning house or hous

  • familiar

    Etymology Latin familiaris from familia meaning household Proto Indo European dʰh

  • scullion

    Etymology of Scullion The word scullion comes from Old French escouillon meaning