peon

Etymology

From a combination of Middle French pion, peon and Spanish peón, both from Late Latin pedōnem (“pedestrian”). Doublet of pawn.

noun

  1. A lowly person; a peasant or serf; a labourer who is obliged to do menial work.
  2. (figurative) A person of low rank or importance.
  3. (India, historical) A messenger, foot soldier, or native policeman.

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