A laborer or unskilled worker, often in a low social position; someone with little power or status.
From Spanish 'peon' and Hindi 'paean,' referring to a foot soldier or laborer. Came through Spanish colonial America. Originally meant a person bound to work off debt.
The word 'peon' captures a harsh historical reality—millions were trapped in debt slavery in Latin America where they worked their whole lives but could never pay off what they owed.
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