The word "hurrier" seems like it should be spelled with two "r's," but it's actually only spelled with one. The IPA phonetic transcription for "hurrier" is /ˈhʌriə(r)/. The last two letters in the transcription, "(r)", represent the silent final "r" in the word. This spelling may seem odd, but it's actually quite common in English. Other words that end in a silent "r" include "actor," "author," and "liquor."
A hurrier is an individual who engages in the activity of pulling or transporting heavy loads, typically in or around a mine or industrial setting. The term originates from the late 18th century when coal mining and various industrial activities were prevalent. Hurriers were a crucial component of these operations, where they would pull or push heavy carts or tubs filled with coal or other materials along tracks or narrow passages.
Typically, hurriers were young children, often boys, who began working in this role at an early age due to their small stature and ability to navigate through confined spaces. They would fasten themselves to a harness or chain and use their physical strength to move the heavy loads from one location to another. This labor-intensive work was often dangerous, with hurriers enduring hazardous conditions and risking injury or health issues due to the strenuous nature of the task, inadequate ventilation, and exposure to dust or toxic gases.
As industrial practices evolved and working conditions improved, the use of hurriers diminished. Legislation and societal changes saw the decrease of child labor and the adoption of safer mechanisms for transporting materials within mines and other industrial settings. Today, the term "hurrier" is predominantly used historically, representing an important part of the labor force during the early years of industrialization.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "hurrier" has its origins in the late Middle English language. It is derived from the Old French word "hurier", which means "to hurry" or "to hasten". The Old French term itself ultimately comes from the Latin word "curare", which means "to care for" or "to take care of". Over time, the meaning of "hurrier" expanded to refer to someone who rushes or hurries about, often in a frenzied manner. In certain historical contexts, "hurriers" were individuals employed in coal mines to transport coal carts by pulling or pushing them, typically in narrow underground passages.