A "daywoman" refers to a female worker, typically hired on a temporary basis, in domestic service. The term "daywoman" is derived from "day laborer," describing individuals who are employed for a short period of time within a specific day or shift. Daywomen are usually engaged in performing a range of household tasks, such as housekeeping, cleaning, cooking, or childcare, in private residences.
The inclusion of the term "woman" in the title distinguishes this type of worker from a "dayman" or "dayworker," who would be the male equivalent. While daywomen primarily provide their services during the daytime, their responsibilities and working hours can vary depending on the specific requirements of the employer.
Daywomen are typically hired on an ad hoc basis, often needed when an extra pair of hands is required or regular employees are unavailable. They fill in temporary gaps in staffing levels and are prevalent in industries that require additional help in periods of higher workload, such as hotels, private households, or during special events. Daywomen possess a range of domestic skills, ensuring that the needs of the household are met in a diligent and timely manner. They may be hired directly by the employing household or through agencies that specialize in providing temporary workers.
In summary, a daywoman is a female worker who is engaged in temporary domestic service, often hired for a day or a shift, to assist with various household tasks.
