Pronunciation: [sˈɛmpstə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "Sempster" originated from the Old French term "sempstress", meaning a female seamstress. It is pronounced /ˈsɛmpstər/ according to IPA phonetic transcription. The "m" and "p" sounds in the word are often confused, leading to alternative spellings such as "sempstress" or "semptress". The term is rarely used in modern language but is still recognized in historical context as a title for a skilled female tailor.
Sempster is a somewhat archaic term that refers to a person or tradesperson involved in the occupation of sewing, particularly in relation to making and repairing garments. The word originates from the Middle English word "sempster" which was derived from the Old French word "sengler", meaning "to sew". A sempster is skilled in various sewing techniques and possesses knowledge of fabrics, patterns, and stitching methods.
Traditionally, sempsters were predominantly women who worked as independent tailors or needleworkers, taking on commissions to create or fix clothing items. In the past, they played a vital role in the production of clothing before the advent of mass production and modern textile industries. Sempsters were usually skilled in creating garments from scratch, using fabric, threads, and needles.
The term may also be used to refer to the owner or proprietor of a shop or business specializing in sewing or dressmaking. In contemporary usage, however, the role and word "sempster" have largely been replaced by terms such as tailor, seamstress, dressmaker, or even simply a sewist, reflecting changes in gender roles and evolving language.
While the usage of the term "sempster" has diminished over time, it highlights the historical significance of the sewing profession, particularly in the context of traditional garment production and the important role played by skilled individuals in creating clothing.
One who works with the needle.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "sempster" has its origins in Old French. It ultimately derives from the Latin word "sempiternus", which means "eternal" or "continuous". Over time, this Latin word evolved into Old French as "sempiternal" or "sempstier", which meant "always" or "everlasting". The "sempstier" was a person who worked with textiles, specifically a seamstress who sews continuously. From Old French, "sempstier" made its way into Middle English as "sempster". The term "sempster" was commonly used to refer to someone who sewed and provided tailoring services, especially for clothing. Even though the word is no longer in common usage today, the occupation of a "sempster" remains present in the form of modern-day tailors or seamstresses.
