What does washwoman mean?
A washwoman is a woman whose occupation is washing clothes, especially in a domestic setting. The term has been in use since the 14th century and was commonly used to refer to a woman who did laundry for a living. In the past, washwomen were often employed by wealthy households to do their laundry. The term is now largely archaic and is mostly used in historical or literary contexts. The plural form of the word is 'washwomen', and it is used to refer to multiple washwomen. The word is derived from the Old English words 'wæsc' (to wash) and 'wīf' (woman).
nounA woman whose occupation is washing clothes, especially in a domestic setting.
- A woman whose occupation is washing clothes, especially in a domestic setting.
"The washwoman worked tirelessly to get the family's laundry clean."
"The washwoman worked tirelessly to get the family's laundry clean."
"The village had several washwomen who worked together to get the community's laundry done."
The plural form is used to refer to multiple washwomen.
"The village had several washwomen who worked together to get the community's laundry done."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of washwoman
The word 'washwoman' is derived from the Old English words 'wæsc' (to wash) and 'wīf' (woman). It has been in use since the 14th century and was commonly used to refer to a woman who did laundry for a living.
Usage notes
In the past, washwomen were often employed by wealthy households to do their laundry. The term is now largely archaic and is mostly used in historical or literary contexts.