ERRAND BOY Meaning and
Definition
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Errand boy is a term used to refer to a young individual, typically a boy or a young man, who is assigned with various tasks or errands by someone else. This person is usually a low-ranking employee or assistant whose primary responsibility is to run errands or perform small jobs on behalf of their employer or supervisor. An errand boy's duties may include delivering important messages or documents, picking up and delivering parcels or packages, performing minor administrative tasks such as filing or photocopying, or any other simple tasks as required by their employer.
The term "errand boy" originated from the concept of assigning someone to carry out errands, which are typically trivial or routine tasks that do not require specialized skills or knowledge. Errand boys are often expected to be quick, reliable, and efficient in completing their assigned tasks. They are usually required to be well-organized and have good time management skills to ensure that they deliver or accomplish their errands within specified deadlines.
In a broader sense, the term "errand boy" can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who unquestioningly carries out tasks or requests for others, without questioning or challenging their employer's authority or decisions. This term is commonly used to illustrate a subordinate or underling role within a hierarchical structure, where the errand boy's role is limited to serving and assisting others rather than making significant decisions or contributions.
Common Misspellings for ERRAND BOY
- wrrand boy
- srrand boy
- drrand boy
- rrrand boy
- 4rrand boy
- 3rrand boy
- eerand boy
- edrand boy
- efrand boy
- etrand boy
- e5rand boy
- e4rand boy
- ereand boy
- erdand boy
- erfand boy
- ertand boy
- er5and boy
- er4and boy
- errznd boy
Etymology of ERRAND BOY
The word "errand boy" is derived from two separate words.
The first part, "errand", comes from the Middle English word "erand" or "ereand", which can be traced back to the Old English term "ærende". "Ærende" meant a message or mission. It is related to the German word "Auftrag", meaning order or commission.
The second part, "boy", refers to a young male, often a servant or assistant. It has its roots in the Old English word "bōia", which translates to a young male servant or attendant.
When combined, "errand boy" refers to a young male who performs tasks or runs errands for someone else. The term has been used since at least the 16th century to denote a personal assistant or messenger, usually a young boy or teenager.
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