“Yeoman” usually means a hardworking person of ordinary rank, especially in a historical or traditional setting. It can also refer to a small farmer who owns and works their own land, or to a loyal, reliable helper.
In everyday English, people most often use “yeoman” in older or formal contexts. You may see it in history, literature, or phrases like “yeoman service,” which means strong, useful help done well and faithfully.
Meaning & Usage
The word “yeoman” has a few related meanings, but they all suggest someone practical, dependable, and hardworking. In history, a yeoman was often a free man who owned land. Today, the word is less common in daily speech, but it still appears in writing, speeches, and set expressions.
Examples
“He did yeoman service in helping the team finish the project.”
“In older times, a yeoman was often a small landowner.”
What does “yeoman service” mean?
It means very helpful, loyal, and effective work. People use it to praise someone who has done a lot of good work.
Is “yeoman” used in modern English?
Yes, but not often in everyday conversation. It is more common in history, formal writing, and fixed expressions.
Does “yeoman” always mean a farmer?
No. It can also mean a dependable helper or a person of a certain rank in older English.
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