Roustabout - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A roustabout is an unskilled or general laborer, often working in physically demanding jobs such as oil rigs, circuses, or docks. They perform tasks like loading, unloading, and maintenance.
Definition:
A laborer doing unskilled or temporary work, often in a circus, oil rig, or dockyard.
Synonyms:
laborer, handyman, drifter, deckhand
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
specialist, professional, expert
Common Collocations:
oil rig roustabout, circus roustabout, dockyard roustabout
Derivatives:
roustabouts (plural), roustabouting (gerund)
Usage Tips:
Use "roustabout" for casual laborers in physical jobs; avoid for formal or skilled roles.
Common Phrases:
"roughneck and roustabout, " "circus roustabout crew, " "oilfield roustabout team"
Etymology:
Originated from "roust" (to stir up) + "about," referring to someone who moves around doing odd jobs.
Examples:
- 1. The circus hired a roustabout to set up the tents.
- 2. He worked as a roustabout on the docks before finding a permanent job.
- 3. The oil rig needed extra roustabouts during the busy season.
- 4. A skilled carpenter is not just a roustabout but a craftsman.