A reliable or steady man; historically, a farm worker or servant who remained with the same employer.
Compound of Middle English 'steady' (firm, constant) and 'man,' originating in agricultural contexts of the 14th-15th centuries. The term described someone dependable and permanent, contrasting with seasonal or temporary workers.
This word captures an entire social system where loyalty and stability were highly valued traits. While 'steadman' has largely disappeared from modern usage, it represents an era when being 'steady' was perhaps the highest compliment for a working person's character and reliability.
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