Mozo

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A skilled worker, often used to refer to a laborer or helper in various trades or tasks
2. An individual who provides assistance or support in manual labor, particularly in agricultural or construction settings
3. A person engaged in physical work, commonly recognized for their expertise in performing specific tasks or duties

Etymology: "Mozo" is a Spanish word, and English borrowed it directly from there. In Spanish, "mozo" has long meant a young man or boy, and it also covers a male servant or porter, which is the sense that carried into English. The English noun describes a helper who assists with manual work, especially on farms or building sites. The word is a good example of how a term for a person's social position can shift between languages and cultures. Its Spanish roots point to youth and service, and English speakers took up the work-related sense rather than the age-related one. Because the word came into English from Spanish rather than through older English or French channels, it still carries a noticeably Hispanic flavour in how it is used.

Synonyms: porter, waiter, attendant, bellboy, carrier