HANDMAIDENS Meaning and
Definition
-
Handmaidens refers to female servants, attendants, or assistants who work under the direct supervision or service of a more powerful or influential person. The term handmaidens is derived from the word "handmaiden," which historically referred to women who provided domestic or personal assistance to their employers.
In a literal sense, handmaidens often perform various physical tasks such as cleaning, cooking, running errands, or providing personal care. They may be employed in different settings, including households, palaces, religious institutions, or within specific occupations like nursing or hospitality, where their support and service are indispensable.
The term can also be used metaphorically to describe individuals who serve as loyal and devoted supporters to a person or cause. For example, in the context of politics or social advocacy, handmaidens may refer to those who align themselves closely with a powerful figure or ideology, either out of genuine loyalty or personal gain. In this sense, handmaidens are individuals who assist, defend, or support the goals and aims of their leaders or the causes they associate themselves with.
Overall, "handmaidens" typically connotes a role of subservience, indicating a relationship where one person is in a position of authority or power, while the handmaiden is subordinate and serves that person's needs.
Common Misspellings for HANDMAIDENS
Etymology of HANDMAIDENS
The word "handmaiden" originated from the Old English term "hondmaegden", which can be further dissected into "hond" meaning "hand" and "maegden" meaning "maiden" or "young woman". The combination of these two words formed "hondmaegden", which referred to a female servant or attendant. Over time, the word evolved and transformed into "handmaiden", keeping the same meaning of a female servant or a female attendant who assists or is submissive to someone else.
Similar spelling words for HANDMAIDENS
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
