Indentured servants Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈdɛntʃərd/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A person who signs a contract, typically for a fixed period, to work for another person or organization in exchange for food, shelter, and often transportation to a new country, with the understanding that the servant will be released from their contract after a certain period.

Examples

• Many indentured servants were brought to the American colonies to work on plantations.
• Indentured servants were often forced to live in poor conditions and work long hours.

Synonyms

• Bound Servant
• Apprentice

Antonyms

• Free Laborer
• Volunteer

Additional Information

Indentured servitude was a common practice in the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly in the American colonies. Many people, often from Europe, would sign contracts to work for a set period, usually 4-7 years, in exchange for passage to the New World. During this time, they would work for their master, often under harsh conditions, until their contract was fulfilled.

Indentured servants performed a variety of tasks, including farming, household chores, and craftsmanship. They were often treated poorly and were at the mercy of their masters. Despite the hardships, many indentured servants were able to earn their freedom and start new lives in the colonies.

Today, the term “indentured servant” is often used to describe someone who feels trapped in a situation or is working under unfair conditions. However, it is essential to remember the historical context and the struggles faced by those who were truly indentured servants.

Etymology

The term “indentured servant” comes from the practice of indenting a contract, where the servant’s name and terms of service were written into the document. The word “indenture” is derived from the Old French word “endenter,” meaning “to cut teeth into a document.”

Usage Notes

When using the term “indentured servant,” it is essential to consider the historical context and the power dynamics involved. Avoid using the term to describe someone who is merely working hard or feels trapped, as this can diminish the experiences of those who were truly indentured servants.

Cultural References

Indentured servants have appeared in various works of literature and popular culture, including the novels “The Witch of Blackbird Pond” by Elizabeth George Speare and “Roots” by Alex Haley. The term has also been used in modern media, such as in the TV show “Outlander” and the movie “The Patriot.”

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Bound to serve: This phrase is derived from the practice of indentured servitude and refers to someone who is obligated to serve or work for another.
• Indentured to the system: This phrase is often used to describe someone who feels trapped in a situation or is working under unfair conditions.

Related Words or Phrases

• Slavery
• Servitude
• Apprenticeship

Collocations

• Indentured servants were brought to the colonies.
• The servant was indentured to the plantation owner.

Frequency of Use

The term “indentured servant” is not commonly used in modern language, except in historical or academic contexts. However, the concept of indentured servitude remains relevant in discussions about labor rights and social justice.

Common Misspellings

• Indentured servent
• Indentured servents
• Indentured servitude