noun / verb
clerk
KLURK/klɜːrk/
A worker who handles routine business tasks, or to work in this role.
The clerk checks the form and files it behind the counter.
Etymology
Clericus meant a priest, but clergy also served as scribes and account-keepers because of their literacy. The word broadened from a religious role to record-keeping and business work, eventually including retail sales.
In context
a town clerk became necessary to record the votes and keep the records
More examples
- A store clerk helped us find the correct size.
- She clerked for a judge after law school.
- The court clerk recorded the hearing's date.
Forms
clerk · clerks · clerked · clerking
Similar words
- administrator
- May oversee operations, while clerk often handles routine records or transactions.