A worker who builds, installs, and repairs power lines, telephone lines, or similar infrastructure, or in football, a player on the line of scrimmage.
Compound word from 'line' + 'man,' originating in the late 1800s when telephone and electric lines were first being installed across America. The term was applied to the workers who maintained these literally life-like networks of wires.
Linemen are among the most dangerous jobs in America—climbing 40+ feet up poles during storms and ice to keep power flowing is incredibly brave work, yet they're often invisible to the people benefiting from their electrified homes and lives.
Lineman/linewoman reflects occupational segregation; the male form became default for electrical/utility workers, historically excluding women. Recent decades have seen women break into these roles.
Use 'line worker' or 'line technician' as gender-neutral terms. Specify 'lineman/linewoman' only when gender is explicitly relevant.
["line worker","line technician","line repairer"]
Women electricians and line workers have historically overcome workplace discrimination and safety barriers to establish professional credibility in these trades.
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