Pronunciation: [kˈɔːviːz] (IPA) 
Corvees is spelled with the letters c-o-r-v-e-e-s. It is a plural noun that refers to unpaid, mandatory labor that was historically required of tenants by their landlords. The IPA phonetic transcription of corvees is /kɔːrˈviːz/. This represents the sounds of the word, beginning with the voiceless velar plosive /k/, followed by a long open-mid back unrounded vowel /ɔː/, and ending with the voiced alveolar fricative /z/.
Corvees refer to a form of unpaid labor or mandatory public service imposed on a certain group of people by a ruling authority or government. This term dates back to ancient times and has been prevalent in various societies throughout history.
Corvees typically involve the requirement for individuals, often peasants or lower-class citizens, to perform specific types of work for the benefit of the state or ruling elite. These tasks can vary widely and may include construction of public infrastructure such as roads, bridges, canals, or other public facilities. Corvees can also involve compulsory labor in agriculture, mining, or manufacturing, where individuals are forced to work on the ruler's land or in designated industries without receiving any compensation.
The purpose of corvees is often to fulfill the needs of the ruling authority while avoiding financial burdens. By utilizing unpaid labor, the government or ruling class can achieve various economic and infrastructural goals without direct expenditure. This practice has been criticized for its exploitative nature, as it places an unfair burden on marginalized groups and can lead to significant hardship and deprivation for those subjected to corvee labor.
In modern times, corvees have largely been abolished due to social reforms, labor rights movements, and changes in political landscapes. However, the term is still used to describe historical practices and serves as a reminder of the social inequalities and hardships faced by many in the past.
The word "corvée" has its origins in French. It is derived from the Old French term "corvée" which meant "unpaid labor". The French word, in turn, can be traced back to the Late Latin word "corrogāta" meaning "compulsory contribution". This Latin term is a combination of "cor-" (together) and "rogāre" (to ask). Over time, "corvée" evolved to refer specifically to unpaid labor imposed on serfs or peasants by feudal lords as a form of tax or obligation.
