Maid

/meɪd/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A female domestic worker who is hired to perform household tasks.
The maid cleaned the entire house before the guests arrived.
A young unmarried woman or a girl, often used in a historical or literary context.
In the grand estate, the maid served the family with grace and dignity.
A woman who serves as a servant in a household, especially in a position of lesser rank.
The noble family employed several maids to help manage the large manor.

Etymology

Middle English maide, from Old English mæden, meaning 'girl, maiden'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

maid of honor
The chief bridesmaid at a wedding.
the maid's quarters
Rooms allocated for the maid in a household.
maid service
Cleaning staff that comes to clean homes.

Related Words

madam
A polite term for a woman.
mistress
A woman with authority or ownership, can also refer to an illicit relationship.

Slang Meanings

A reference to a cleaner or domestic worker in a derogatory sense.
Don't boss me around like I'm your maid.
An affectionate term for a girlfriend or close female friend.
She's my maid; we do everything together.