major-domo n : the chief steward or butler of a great household [syn: seneschal]

English

Noun

1. The head servant in a wealthy European household
2. A butler

Translations

• Italian: maggiordomo

A majordomo is the highest (major) person of a household (domo) staff, one who acts on behalf of the (often absent) owner of a typically large residence. Similar terms include castellan, chamberlain, seneschal, Mayor of the Palace, maître d'hôtel, butler and steward.

Etymology

The etymology is from mayordomo (Spanish) and major domus (Latin). Similarly in french "majordome", in Italian "maggiordomo".

Responsibilities

The majordomo is responsible for the management of the household. Majordomos were common in Europe until feudalism decreased in importance and the landed aristocracy no longer had the means to employ them.

See also

• Papal majordomo

tags

MC, attorney, bailiff, butler, chamberlain, croupier, curator, custodian, emcee, factor, guardian, house steward, housekeeper, landreeve, librarian, master of ceremonies, proctor, procurator, seneschal, steward