CHINESE LAUNDRY Meaning and
Definition
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Chinese laundry refers to a historical term that originated in the late 19th century in Western societies, primarily in North America, to describe a laundry or washing business operated by Chinese immigrants. The term was coined due to the significant presence of Chinese immigrants who predominantly worked in the laundry industry during that time.
Typically, a Chinese laundry or Chinese laundryman would offer washing, ironing, and dry-cleaning services to the local community. They often worked long hours, had excellent attention to detail, and developed efficient techniques for cleaning clothes. Chinese laundries became widespread and established a strong reputation for their quality cleaning services and affordable prices.
Moreover, Chinese laundries played a prominent role in shaping the laundry industry as they introduced new techniques and technologies. They were known for their use of steam-powered washers and drying machines, which were considered advanced for that period.
However, it is important to note that the term "Chinese laundry" also carries a historical context, as it reflects the discrimination and prejudice faced by Chinese immigrants in Western societies at that time. The name "Chinese laundry" became a racial stereotype and reflected the perception that Chinese immigrants were bound to menial and low-paying jobs.
In conclusion, a Chinese laundry refers to a historical business operated by Chinese immigrants providing laundry services in Western societies during the late 19th century, an era marked by both the contributions and discrimination faced by the Chinese community.
Common Misspellings for CHINESE LAUNDRY
- xhinese laundry
- vhinese laundry
- fhinese laundry
- dhinese laundry
- cginese laundry
- cbinese laundry
- cninese laundry
- cjinese laundry
- cuinese laundry
- cyinese laundry
- chunese laundry
- chjnese laundry
- chknese laundry
- chonese laundry
- ch9nese laundry
- ch8nese laundry
- chibese laundry
- chimese laundry
- chijese laundry
- chihese laundry
Etymology of CHINESE LAUNDRY
The term "Chinese laundry" originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in North America, particularly in cities with large populations of Chinese immigrants. It referred to a laundry establishment run and operated by Chinese immigrants.
The etymology of the term lies in the historical context of Chinese immigration to the United States and Canada during that time. Chinese immigrants, largely from the Guangdong province of southern China, were among the early waves of immigrants who worked in laundries to earn a living. They faced discriminatory barriers that made it difficult for them to secure jobs in other industries, so they turned to laundry work, which required minimal equipment and capital investment.
The association of Chinese immigrants with laundry work led to the term "Chinese laundry" being used generically to refer to any laundry establishment, regardless of the actual ethnic background of the owners or workers.
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