navvy

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a laborer who is obliged to do menial work

Etymology

Clipping of navigator, in reference to the navigation canals upon which these workers first toiled, + -y.

In classic literature

Synonyms

drudge, peon, galley slave

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