parlormaid

[ pahr-ler-meyd ]

noun

1. a maid who takes care of a parlor, answers the door, waits on guests, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of parlormaid¹

First recorded in 1830–40; parlor + maid

Example Sentences

He looked at the tortoise-mouthed parlormaid with a new interest, until she became waxily pink under his stare.

From Project Gutenberg

In the hall below, the parlormaid Annie encountered Mrs. Heth, waked from her nap by the two rings at the bell.

From Project Gutenberg

Jane, the parlormaid, entering with tea, interrupted his comments.

From Project Gutenberg

Jill was talking to the parlormaid whose head had popped up over the banisters flanking the stairs that led to the kitchen.

From Project Gutenberg

Somehow she could not picture her in a parlormaid's cap and apron.

From Project Gutenberg