Backtender

/ˈbæktɛndər/ noun

Definition

A person who tends to or manages the back portion of something, historically often the back of a bar or counter in a store or tavern.

Etymology

From 'back' (Old English bæc) + 'tender' (from Old English tendan, to tend or care for). An occupational term that faded as work organization became more specialized.

Kelly Says

Backtenders were the unsung heroes of early retail—they managed inventory, restocking, and the physical back space while front-of-house workers dealt with customers, a division of labor that's still reflected in modern businesses.

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