Ashmen

/ˈæʃmən/ noun

Definition

Plural of ashman; multiple workers who collect or dispose of ashes.

Etymology

Regular plural of 'ashman' using the '-men' suffix (Old English masculine plural). Preserves the old irregular plural form.

Kelly Says

The word 'ashmen' appears regularly in 19th-century city directories and job lists, a reminder that entire professions have vanished as technology changed—like the lamplighter or iceman.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Plural occupational term defaulting to masculine form. Historically excluded women from formal recognition of ash collection work even when they participated.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'ash collectors' or 'ashworkers' as gender-neutral occupational descriptors.

Inclusive Alternatives

["ash collectors","ashworkers","ash handlers"]

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