Correct spelling for the English word "yoman" is [jˈɒmən], [jˈɒmən], [j_ˈɒ_m_ə_n] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Yoman is a noun that can refer to two distinct definitions. In historical context, a yeoman (often spelled without the additional "a") denoted a member of a social class in medieval Europe. Yeomen were generally freeborn peasants who owned and cultivated their small parcels of land. They held a position between the lower-class serfs and the higher-ranking gentry or nobility.
In a different context, yoman (short for "young man") is an informal and colloquial term used to address or refer to a young male individual. It is primarily used to show familiarity or casualness. This usage is prevalent in various English-speaking regions and is often seen in informal conversations or interpersonal relations. For example, someone might say, "Hey yoman, how's it going?" to greet a young man they know.
It's worth noting that these two definitions are spelled differently. The historical term is spelled "yeoman," whereas the colloquial term is spelled "yoman." The context in which the term is used and the specific spelling are crucial in understanding its intended meaning.
The word "yoman" is derived from the Middle English term "yeman", which originated from the Old English word "ġēaman" or "ġēomann". In Old English, "ġēamann" referred to a servant, attendant, or retainer. Over time, this evolved into "yeman", which referred to a subordinate or servant in a household or a minor officer in various professions. The modern spelling "yeoman" emerged in the 16th century, combining the archaic pronoun "ye" (referring to "you") and "man". It came to signify a freeholder of a small piece of land, a member of the middle class, or an officer in the military.