dhobi

/ ˈdəʊbɪ /

noun

1. (in India, Malaya, East Africa, etc, esp formerly) a washerman

Word History and Origins

Origin of dhobi¹

C19: from Hindi, from dhōb washing; related to Sanskrit dhāvaka washerman

Example Sentences

They have never been separately classified at the census but always amalgamated with the Dhobi or washerman caste.

From Project Gutenberg

Before washing his clothes the Dhobi steams them,2 hanging them in a bundle for a time over a cauldron of boiling water.

From Project Gutenberg

Like the Teli the Dhobi is unlucky, and it is a bad omen to see him when starting on a journey or going out in the morning.

From Project Gutenberg

It is also currently believed that the Dhobi wears the clothes of his customers himself.

From Project Gutenberg

On the other hand, one or two of the village menials, such as the Dhobi or washerman, are considered to some extent impure.

From Project Gutenberg