child-labor
UK[ˈtʃaɪld ˌleɪbə(r)]US[ˈtʃaɪld ˌleɪbər]
n
The use of children in work that deprives them of their childhood, is harmful to their physical and mental development, and interferes with their education.
Morpheme Breakdown
child
labor
child
young person
labor
work
Etymology
The compound noun "child-labor" is a transparent combination of two ancient roots, directly reflecting its modern meaning. "Child" originates from Old English, carrying the core concept of a young human being. "Labor" has a Latin lineage, fundamentally denoting strenuous work or toil. The term emerged in the late 19th to early 20th century during the Industrial Revolution, specifically to name and critique the widespread employment of children in factories, mines, and other demanding occupations. It semantically fuses the concept of youth ("child") with the concept of arduous, often exploitative, work ("labor"), creating a precise label for a specific social issue.
Analysis
Structure: child (young person) + labor (work)
- child: From Old English 'cild', meaning a fetus, infant, or young person. Its ultimate origin is uncertain but may be from a Proto-Germanic root related to gestation or womb.
- labor: From Latin 'labor', meaning work, toil, exertion, or hardship. It entered English via Old French 'labour'.
Examples
The new law aims to eliminate child-labor in the textile industry.
International organizations are working to raise awareness about the dangers of child-labor.
The documentary exposed the harsh realities of child-labor in the agricultural sector.