Deliveryman

/dɪˈlɪvərimæn/ noun

Definition

A man employed to deliver goods, packages, or mail to customers.

Etymology

Compound word combining 'delivery' (the act of handing over) plus 'man' (male person). Became standardized in the early 1900s with the rise of commercial delivery services and department stores.

Kelly Says

The term 'deliveryman' peaked in the mid-20th century but is fading as 'delivery person' or 'courier' replaces it—yet it's immortalized in the Beastie Boys' 'Brass Monkey,' forever cool.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Compound with '-man' suffix; default masculine term for occupational role that women have always performed, particularly in postal and retail delivery.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'delivery person' or 'delivery driver'; avoid gendered compounds.

Inclusive Alternatives

["delivery person","delivery driver","delivery worker"]

Empowerment Note

Women parcel carriers, postal workers, and delivery professionals have been systematically excluded from occupational language by masculine defaults.

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