bootblack

[ boot-blak ]

noun

1. a person who shines shoes and boots boot boots for a living.

bootblack

/ ˈbuːtˌblæk /

noun

1. See shoeblack
   another word for shoeblack

Word History and Origins

Origin of bootblack¹

An Americanism dating back to 1810–20; boot ¹ + black

Example Sentences

The mountain lad, though but half comprehending the bootblack's meaning, was aware that he was being made game of.

From Project Gutenberg

From the Cittadella School there was a bootblack whom my father knew, and the prefect gave him a diploma.

From Project Gutenberg

The chair of the bootblack had been splintered into kindling wood.

From Project Gutenberg

At the junction of Wall and New Streets he came suddenly upon a large-sized bootblack, whose face looked familiar.

From Project Gutenberg

Opposite the tent of the bootblack he halted and started back again, where the path lay clear in the moonlight.

From Project Gutenberg