Lists of names of people or groups, typically showing duties, schedules, or membership.
From Dutch rooster meaning 'gridiron' or 'list', literally 'roaster' from roosten 'to roast'. The connection comes from the grid-like appearance of both cooking grates and organized lists. Entered English in the 18th century through military usage.
The word 'roster' literally means 'gridiron' in Dutch, showing how the organized, grid-like appearance of cooking equipment inspired the term for organized lists. Sports teams' rosters maintain this visual metaphor - players arranged in systematic formations like food on a grill.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.