menial
UK: ˈmiːniəl | US: ˈmiːniəl
adj. relating to or suitable for domestic servants; lowly or degrading
n. a domestic servant or someone performing unskilled tasks
The word menial traces back to the Latin mansio (a dwelling), evolving through Old French mesnie (household) to Middle English meinial, referring to servants of a household. Over time, it acquired a derogatory connotation, emphasizing low-status, unskilled labor. The shift reflects societal attitudes toward domestic work as inferior.
He resigned himself to a menial job after losing his fortune.
In the past, menial tasks were often assigned to the lowest-ranking staff.
She refused to accept such a menial position despite her financial struggles.
The robot was designed to automate menial chores like dishwashing.
His menial duties included sweeping floors and cleaning windows.