Pronunciation: [dˈe͡əɹɪmˌe͡ɪd] (IPA) 
The word "dairymaid" is spelled with the letter "y" instead of "i" despite its pronunciation having a long "i" sound. This is because "dairymaid" is derived from the Old English word "dairghe" which eventually evolved into "dairy". In Middle English, the "g" sound transformed into a "y" sound. The correct pronunciation of "dairymaid" is /dɛəri.meɪd/ with a long "e" sound for the second syllable.
A dairymaid is a female worker employed in a dairy farm, responsible for carrying out various tasks related to the production and management of dairy products. The term "dairymaid" originated from the combination of "dairy" — referring to the area or building where milk is processed to make products such as butter, cheese, or yogurt — and "maid," which typically describes a young unmarried woman or female domestic servant.
The dairymaid's primary responsibilities revolve around the care and milking of cows. She milks the cows using specialized techniques, ensuring a clean and sanitary environment to prevent contamination of milk. Additionally, she may be responsible for feeding and cleaning the cows, along with maintaining their overall health and well-being. Dairymaids often interact with veterinarians or livestock experts to address any health issues or concerns.
In addition to her work with the cows, a dairymaid is skilled in the processing of milk into various dairy products. This may involve churning butter, making cheese, or preparing other milk-based products. She ensures that the milk is properly stored and follows standardized procedures to maintain hygiene and quality standards in the production process.
Overall, a dairymaid plays a crucial role in the daily operations of a dairy farm, contributing directly to milk production and the subsequent creation of dairy products.
A female servant engaged in the management of milk.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "dairymaid" originated from the combination of two terms: "dairy" and "maid".
- "Dairy" comes from the Old English word "daegery", which meant "building or room for making butter and cheese". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "daigriz", meaning "cream" or "butter".
- "Maid" derived from the Old English term "mægden", originally meaning "young woman". Over time, "maid" became specifically associated with a young unmarried woman engaged in domestic work.
Therefore, the combination of "dairy" and "maid" created the term "dairymaid", which refers to a woman or girl employed in a dairy, specifically to work with milk and dairy products.
