menial - Meaning, Image, Examples & Etymology - Learn English Visually

menial

|me/ni/al|

/ˈmiːniəl/

lowly work

Etymology

Etymology Information

'menial' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'meynyal,' where 'meyne' meant 'household.'

Historical Evolution

'meynyal' transformed into the modern English word 'menial' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'pertaining to a household,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'lowly or degrading work.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a person who does menial work.

The menial was responsible for cleaning the stables.

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Antonyms

Adjective 1

relating to work that is considered lowly or degrading.

She found herself doing menial tasks at the office.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

Last updated: 2025/02/05 07:36