Pronunciation: [fˈiːldhand] (IPA) 
The word "fieldhand" is a compound word that refers to a worker who performs tasks in the field, such as picking crops. The spelling of "fieldhand" is straightforward and follows typical English phonetic spelling, with the first syllable pronounced as "feeld" and the second syllable pronounced as "hand." Using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), the pronunciation of "fieldhand" is /ˈfiːldˌhænd/."
A fieldhand refers to an agricultural worker who performs physical labor tasks predominantly in fields and farms. These individuals are primarily engaged in manual labor activities related to cultivating, planting, maintaining, and harvesting crops or other agricultural produce. The term "fieldhand" emphasizes the occupation's correlation to working outdoors, particularly in open fields or farmlands.
Fieldhands play a crucial role in various agricultural processes, employing their strength, resilience, and dexterity to execute tasks efficiently. Their responsibilities may include plowing land, planting or transplanting seeds or seedlings, weeding, applying fertilizers or pesticides, irrigating crops, and operating or maintaining agricultural machinery or tools. They often work in teams, following instructions from supervisors or farm owners to ensure tasks are completed according to specific guidelines or schedules.
Fieldhands typically work long hours and might be exposed to various weather conditions, such as extreme heat, rain, or cold. Their work necessitates physical fitness, stamina, and ability to handle repetitive manual tasks. The occupation can be demanding, requiring individuals to adapt to the changing requirements of different crops or seasons.
Historically, fieldhands have been associated with plantation agriculture, particularly in contexts such as North America during the era of slavery. However, the term encompasses a broader range of agricultural labor worldwide, reflecting the general role of an agricultural worker who predominantly operates in field settings.
The word "fieldhand" combines two elements: "field" and "hand".
The term "field" refers to a cultivated or open area of land used for farming, typically involving the growth of crops or raising livestock. The word "field" comes from the Old English word "feld", which has Germanic roots and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "felthuz".
The word "hand" refers to the part of the human body at the end of the arm, which is used for grasping, manipulating objects, and performing various tasks. The word "hand" comes from the Old English word "hand" with Germanic origins. Its roots can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "handuz".
When combined, "fieldhand" refers to a person who works with their hands in the field, specifically in agriculture or farming.
