What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
handmaiden
Example
The queen's handmaiden helped her get dressed for the ball. [handmaiden: noun]
Example
The company's success was seen as a handmaiden to the CEO's leadership. [handmaiden: metaphorical]
maid
Example
The maid comes twice a week to clean the house. [maid: noun]
Example
The nurse's aide acted as a maid to the elderly patient, helping with bathing and dressing. [maid: metaphorical]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Maid is more commonly used than handmaiden in modern language, especially in casual and everyday contexts. Handmaiden is more formal and literary and is less commonly used in everyday speech.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between handmaiden and maid?
Handmaiden is a more formal and literary term that is less commonly used in everyday speech, while maid is more casual and versatile and can be used in various formality levels.
