The word "day woman" is spelled as /deɪ ˈwʊmən/. The first syllable is pronounced like the word "day", with a long "a" sound. The second syllable is pronounced with a short "u" sound, like the word "book". The final syllable is pronounced as "mən", with a schwa sound in the middle and an emphasized "n" at the end. This word refers to a woman who works during the day, as opposed to a night shift worker.
Day woman refers to a domestic worker who is employed on a regular daily basis to perform various household tasks and chores, typically working for multiple households or employers. This term is primarily used in the Caribbean region, particularly in countries like Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and Jamaica.
A day woman is usually hired to carry out cleaning, cooking, laundry, and general housekeeping duties within private residences. Unlike live-in domestic workers, a day woman does not stay overnight and returns to her own home at the end of each workday. This arrangement allows the employer to avail of the worker's services during specific hours, typically during the day, and does not involve providing accommodation or meals.
Day women may be employed part-time or full-time, depending on the employer's requirements and the extent of tasks to be completed. They may work for several clients, rotating between households on different days or during different time slots. Day women may offer their services independently or be employed through domestic employment agencies.
The profession of a day woman is recognized for its importance in maintaining the cleanliness and organization of households, ensuring the smooth functioning of daily routines, and providing support to busy homeowners. Their services often contribute significantly to the overall management and upkeep of homes, while allowing individuals to balance their professional and personal lives effectively.