shoeblack

[ shoo-blak ]

noun

1. bootblack.

shoeblack

/ ˈʃuːˌblæk /

noun

1. (esp formerly) a person who shines boots and shoes

Word History and Origins

Origin of shoeblack¹

First recorded in 1745–55; shoe + black

Example Sentences

When the shoeblack part of the affair is over and done with, the grammar, which was made for schoolmarms in male garb, and the shining rhetoric, what remains?

From Project Gutenberg

Had he lived longer, and had he enjoyed that competence which a prudent shoeblack seldom fails to enjoy, Spenser would have been second in fame to Shakespeare only.

From Project Gutenberg

The last shoeblack that I remember in London sat under the covered entrance of Red Lion-court, Fleet-street within the last six years.

From Project Gutenberg

The child for friends he sad did lack, They said he was but a shoeblack, Kind hearted man the poor child bore, To a soft cot in back of store.

From Project Gutenberg

Several shoeblacks very anxious to black my boots, which, as I tell them, would be "painting the lily."

From Project Gutenberg