board-wages
Noun (plural in form but often used with a singular verb):
- An allowance for meals: "board-wages" refers to a sum of money paid to a servant or employee in lieu of providing them with food or board (lodging with meals). It is compensation specifically designated to cover the cost of meals when the employer does not provide them directly.
- (They were given money to buy their own food rather than being fed by the employer.)
- (The employer paid an additional allowance specifically for food.)
- (The crew received money to purchase their own food while at sea.)
Historical context: "board-wages" were common in 19th and early 20th century domestic service, where servants lived in the employer's home but received a separate cash allowance for meals if the employer chose not to provide food directly.
- In Victorian households, many maids received board-wages of a few shillings per week. (The allowance was a standard part of their compensation.)
Distinction from "wages": Unlike regular wages (payment for labour), board-wages are specifically earmarked for sustenance.
- The cook's board-wages were deducted from her total pay if she ate meals in the kitchen. (The allowance was conditional on whether meals were provided.)
Board (n): the provision of meals and lodging, often as part of employment.
- Room and board are included in the university fee. (Accommodation and meals are provided.)
Wages (n): regular payment for work done.
- He received his wages every Friday. (His salary was paid weekly.)
Board and lodging (n): accommodation and meals provided together.
- The job offers free board and lodging. (Housing and food are supplied at no cost.)
- Meal allowance: a sum of money given to cover the cost of food.
- Subsistence allowance: a payment to cover basic living expenses, particularly food.
- Canteen money: a colloquial term for money given in place of meals at a workplace.
Board and keep: another term for board and lodging, especially in historical contexts.
- The apprentice was given board and keep in exchange for his work. (He received food and accommodation.)
To earn one's board: to work in exchange for meals.
- He earned his board by helping in the kitchen. (He received food for his labour.)