handmaid
noun
something that is necessarily subservient or subordinate to another.
handmaids
-
pluralof handmaid.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Atwood’s 1985 novel about a futuristic patriarchal society where the robed handmaids are forced to bear children for leaders, has reemerged in recent years as a cultural touchstone thanks to the popular TV series.
From Seattle Times ● Mar. 16, 2023
Hulu’s “The Handmaid’s Tale” includes actors of color among Gilead’s ruling theocracy and its subjugated handmaids.
From New York Times ● Sep. 29, 2022
Margaret Atwood’s dystopian Gilead centers on a hierarchical system of red-clad handmaids and blue-draped wives.
From Slate ● Oct. 23, 2020
Some women in leadership positions used to be called handmaids, but now are referred to as “women leaders,” Lent said, to avoid the perception of servility.
From Reuters ● Sep. 26, 2020
“She has no handmaids, poor thing,” he had said to Theon.
From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin
