Vocabulary word Journeyman - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

Advancement and Improvement

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Dedication and Devotion

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Skill and Distinction

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Dictionary Definition of journeyman

A skilled worker who has completed an apprenticeship and is now working for wages.
"He was a journeyman carpenter, with years of experience building houses."

Detailed Meaning of Journeyman

The term is most commonly used in the trades and crafts, such as construction, electrical work, plumbing, and carpentry, but it can also be used in other fields such as hairdressing, cooking, and mechanics. A journeyman is considered to be a skilled worker who has completed their training and is able to work independently, but is not yet a master of their trade or craft. A journeyman electrician, for example, is someone who has completed their apprenticeship and passed the necessary exams to work as a licensed electrician.
A journeyman is also used to describe a professional athlete who is experienced and has had moderate success but has not yet become a star.
In general, journeyman refers to a skilled worker who has completed an apprenticeship and is now working for wages, and is a term that is most commonly used in the trades and crafts, but it can also be used in other fields. It implies that the person has a good understanding of the skills and knowledge required for the profession, but they are not yet considered a master of their trade.

Example Sentences for Journeyman

1. The skilled journeyman crafted a beautiful piece of furniture with precision and expertise.
2. The journeyman completed his apprenticeship and embarked on his professional career.
3. As a journeyman electrician, he traveled from job to job, gaining experience in different environments.
4. The journeyman chef impressed everyone with his culinary skills and ability to create exquisite dishes.
5. After years of hard work, the journeyman finally achieved the status of master in his craft.
6. The journeyman plumber quickly diagnosed the issue and fixed the problem in no time.

Origin and Etymology of Journeyman

The term 'journeyman' has its origins in medieval Europe, particularly in the guild system that governed skilled trades during that era. The word can be traced back to the Middle English 'journeymen,' which is derived from the Old French 'jornee,' meaning 'a day's work' or 'a day's journey.' This Old French term, in turn, is rooted in the Latin word 'diurnum,' meaning 'daily.' The term 'journeyman' originally referred to a skilled laborer who was no longer an apprentice but had not yet achieved the status of a master craftsman. These journeymen would travel from place to place, seeking work and gaining experience in their trade, which is why the concept of a journey or day's work is embedded in its etymology.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun journeyman:

apprentice

novice

beginner

craftsman

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Journeyman

1. The journeyman carpenter meticulously measured and cut the wood to build a sturdy bookshelf.
2. The journeyman painter showcased his talent by creating a stunning mural on the city wall.
3. The journeyman blacksmith forged a beautifully designed sword that was both functional and artistic.
4. With his experience and knowledge, the journeyman architect designed a magnificent skyscraper.
5. He was a journeyman electrician, skilled in his trade.
6. She was a journeyman chef, having trained under many renowned chefs.
7. The football player was a journeyman, having played for several teams throughout his career.
8. He was a journeyman writer, having published many articles and books.
9. The musician was a journeyman, having toured with many bands over the years.
10. She was a journeyman graphic designer, having worked with a variety of clients.
11. He was a journeyman plumber, having worked on many complex projects.
12. The software developer was a journeyman, having worked on various projects in different languages.
13. She was a journeyman nurse, having worked in many different specialties.
14. He was a journeyman athlete, having competed in many different sports throughout his career.