Footman - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A footman is a male domestic worker, typically in a wealthy household, who assists with serving meals, attending doors, and performing other household duties. Historically, footmen wore distinctive uniforms.
Definition:
A male servant in a household, often attending to the door and assisting guests.
Synonyms:
servant, attendant, butler, valet
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
master, employer
Common Collocations:
liveried footman, royal footman, household footman
Derivatives:
footmen, footmanship
Usage Tips:
Use "footman" to refer to a male domestic worker in historical or formal contexts.
Common Phrases:
liveried footman, footman's pantry, footman's duties
Etymology:
From Middle English "fotman," combining "foot" (as in on foot) and "man," originally denoting a pedestrian messenger or servant.
Examples:
- 1. The footman opened the grand door for the guests.
- 2. A liveried footman carried the silver tray into the dining room.
- 3. The wealthy family employed several footmen to manage their estate.
- 4. The footman announced each guest as they arrived at the ball.