A butler is a domestic worker who is responsible for managing the household. They are typically in charge of the dining room, wine cellar, pantry, and sometimes even the entire house. The butler is often seen as a symbol of luxury and sophistication, and their role has been romanticized in literature and film.
Definitions
According to Merriam-Webster, a butler is “a male household servant who has charge of wines and liquors and is responsible for the table service.” Oxford Languages defines a butler as “a male household servant in charge of wines and the table.” The Cambridge Dictionary describes a butler as “a male servant in a large house who is responsible for organizing the other servants and for greeting and serving guests.”
Origin
The word “butler” comes from the Old French word “bouteillier,” which means “bottle bearer.” The butler’s original role was to manage the wine cellar and serve wine to guests. Over time, their responsibilities expanded to include managing the entire household.
Meaning in different dictionaries
Different dictionaries offer slightly different definitions of a butler. However, they all agree that a butler is a male domestic servant who is responsible for managing the household, particularly the dining room and wine cellar.
Associations
The butler is often associated with luxury, wealth, and sophistication. They are often depicted in literature and film as being highly skilled, discreet, and loyal. The butler is also associated with the upper class and is often seen as a symbol of status.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for butler include steward, majordomo, headwaiter, and valet.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for butler. However, some opposite concepts include unorganized, chaotic, and unrefined.
The same root words
The word “butler” comes from the Old French word “bouteillier,” which means “bottle bearer.” Other words that share this root include “bottle,” “bottleneck,” and “bottling.”
Example Sentences
- The butler served the guests with impeccable manners and attention to detail.
- The butler managed the wine cellar and made sure that the guests had the perfect bottle to accompany their meal.
- The butler was responsible for organizing the other servants and ensuring that the household ran smoothly.
- The wealthy family hired a butler to oversee their household and manage their social events.
- The butler was discreet and loyal, and he kept the family’s secrets safe.