Dictionary of Old Occupations: A-Z Index

Introduction to Jane's Dictionary of Old Occupations

Click the thumbnail to view the ebook cover full size.

Welcome to my dictionary of old occupations, jobs, archaic trades and similar historical terms. In the course of my research work as a family tree professional I naturally come across many historic records showing job titles, terms or occupations which are no longer in common use. Having spent so many years working with census records I compiled my own glossary to help me with my family tree research.

I decided to turn my work into an online dictionary of old occupations, and make this information available through my Family Researcher website as an aid to private individuals who are researching their own ancestors. The dictionary has been growing since 2009 and is larger than most free online resources for old trades and occupations, having well over two thousand entries.

If you have details of an occupational definition which is missing then please contact me with the info and I will be delighted to add it to the site.

Ebook now available!

That's right! The Dictionary of Old Occupations is now available as an ebook. So, if you fancy a copy to use as an offline reference resource then follow these links. My dictionary is available in Kindle and other formats. Makes a handy reference for history buffs, family tree enthusiasts, and creative writers looking to give their work authenticity.

A-Z index of old occupations

Jobs are listed alphabetically by job title, so this index will help you browse through the dictionary to find interesting and obscure old occupations and their definitions.

Index of Old Occupations beginning A
Abactor Abbess Abbott Abigail Able Seaman Abram Academician Acater Accipitary Accomptant Accoucheur Accoutrement Maker Ackerman Acolyte Acreman Actuary Adjutant Adjutant General Administrator Advertisement Conveyancer Advocate Advowee Advowson Aeronaut	Ag Lab Agister Alabasterer Alblastere Alchemist Alderman Ale-Conner Alehouse Keeper Ale Draper Ale Founder Ale Taster Ale Tunner Alewife All Spice Almanac Man Almoner Almsman Alnager Amah Amanuensis Amber Cutter Ambler Amen Man Anchor Smith	Anchores Anchorite Angle Iron Smith Anilepman Ankle Beater Annatto Maker Annuitant Antigropelos Maker Anvil Smith Apiarian Apothecary Apparitor Apprentice Appraiser Aproneer Apronman Aquarius Aquavita Seller Arbalester Arbalister Arbiter Archer Archiater Archiator	Archil Maker Ark Man Arkwright Armiger Armiger Squire Armourer Arrowsmith Art Ware Maker Artificer Artisan Artist Painter Ashery worker Ashman Assayer Assay Master Auger Maker Aulnager Aurifaber Avenator Avener Avowry Axel Tree Maker Axel Turner

Index of Old Occupations beginning B
Back Houseboy Bag Stitcher Back Tenter Back Washer Backmaker Badger Badgy Fiddler Bagman Bagniokeeper Bag Room Boy Bailiff Bairman Baker Maker Bal Maiden Balancer Baler Bailie Bailiff Baillie Ballad Monger Ballast Heaver Ballast Master Baller Baller Up Ballista Archer Balloon Blower Bandsman Bandster Bang Beggar Bank Manager Bank odd man Banker Banksman Barber-Surgeon Bard Bareman Bargee Bargeman Barilla Manufacturer Barkeeper Barker Barleyman Barkman Barm Brewer Barmaster Barrel Filer Barrow Man Bartoner Basil Worker Basin Maker Basketman Bast Dresser Bathing Machine Proprietor Bat Maker Batman Batt Maker Battledore Maker Bauer Baven Maker Bawd Baxter Bayweaver Bead Piercer Beadle Beadsman Beamer Bearer Beater	Beatster Beaver Beck Becker Bedel Bedesman Bedman Bedral Bedwevere Bee Skep Maker Beetler Belhoste Bell Hanger Bell Maiden Bellfounder Bellman Bellowfarmer Belly Builder Belly Roller Benchman Bender Besom Maker Besswarden Bicycle Liner Biddy Billier Billy Man Billy Spinner Bill Poster Binder Bird Boy Bird Catcher Birds Nest Seller Birlyman Biscuit Kiln Man Biscuit Rubber Black Borderer Black Saddler Black Tray Maker Blacksmith Blackworker Blacking Maker Bladesmith Blast Furnace Slagger Blaxter Bleacher Blemmere Blentonist Blindsman Block Cutter Block Maker Block Printer Blocker Bloodletter Bloodman Bloom Smith Bloomer Blower Blowfeeder Blue Dyer Blue Maker Blue Slater Bluestocking Bluffer Blunger Operator Board Liner Boarder Boarding Officer	Boardman Boardwright Boatman Boatswain Bobber Bobbin Carrier Bobbin Ligger Bobbin Turner Bobby Body Maker Bodger Bog Iron Hunter Boiler Plater Boilermaker Boilersmith Bolter Bondager Bondman Bondsman Bone Button Maker Bone Cutter Bone Lace Maker Bone Mould Turner Bone Picker Bonesetter Boniface Book Gilder Book Keeper Book Marbler Bookholder Bookman Boonmaster Boot Catcher Boot Clicker Boot Closer Boot Laster Boot Sprigger Bootbinder Bootleboy Boothman Borer Borler Borreler Borsholder Botcher Bottle Boy Bottler Bottom Knocker Bottom Maker Bottom-Sawyer Bowdler Bower of Cows Bower Maiden Bowker Bowler Bowlman Bowlminder Bowlwoman Bowlturner Bowman Bowyer Boxmaster Bozzler Brabender Brabener Brachygrapher Braider Brailler	Brakeman Brancher Brasiler Brasiater Bratman Brazier Breech Maker Brewster Brick Burner Brickman Bricksetter Bridewell Keeper Bridgeman Bridger Brightsmith Brimstone Refiner Broadcloth Weaver Brogger Broker Broom Dasher Broom Squire Broiderer Brow Girl Browman Brownsmith Brush Drawer Brush Stale Maker Brush Wirer Brusher Buckle Tongue Maker Buckler Buckler and Lacer Bucklesmith Buckram Maker Buck Washer Buddleboy Buddler Bullion Pearler Bullion Purler Bullwhacker Bum Bailiff Bumboat Man Bummaree Bummer Bump Mill Hand Bunter Bureler Burgermeister Burgess Burgomaster Burler Burmaiden Burneman Burnisher Burye Man Bushel Maker Busheler Busker Buss Maker Butler Butner Button Carder Butter Carver Butty Byrlawman

Index of Old Occupations beginning C
Cab Driver Cabbie Cabsman Cad Caddie Caddy Butcher Cadger Cafender Caffler Cainer Caird Calciner Calender Operator Calenderer Calico Printer Caller Cambric Maker Camerist Camister Camlet Merchant Camp Follower Campaner Canal Puddler Canaller Candler Cane Seller Caner Cannoneer Cantor Canting Caller Canvaser Caper Capillaire Maker Carbonarius Card Maker Card Nailer Card Nailorer Carder Cardroomer Carman Carnifex Carpentarius Cart Wheeler Carter Cartman Cartwright Cartographer Cartomancer Cartwright Case Hardener Cashmarie Caster Castorer Castrator Catagman Catchpole Catchpoller Cattle Jobber Cattleman Caulker Causewaymaker Ceapman Ceiler Cellarer Cellarman Cemmer Hand Ceramist Chaff Cutter Chafferer Chair Bodger Chaise Driver Chaisemaker Chaloner Chamberlain	Chambermaid Chamber Master Chandler Chanty Man Chapeler Chapman Chapper Char Charcoal Burner Chartmaster Charwoman Chaser Chatelaine Chaunter Cheapjack Cheese Factor Cheese Monger Check Weaver Check Weighman Chevener Chiffonnier Child Bed Linen Dealer Chimney Sweep China Dish Maker China Door Furniture Maker Chinglor Chippy Chiropodist Chirugeon Chowder Chronologist Cigar Roller Cinder Wench Circuit Rider Cissor City Meter Civil Engineer Civil Servant Clagger Claker Clapman Classman Claviger Clay Bearer Clay Blunger Clay Grinder Clay Maker Clay Pressman Clay Puddler Clay Temperer Clay Treader Clay Wedger Clay Worker Clayman Cleric Clericus Clerk Clicker Clipper Clipper On/Off Clockmaker Clod Hopper Clog Dancer Clogger Closet Maker Cloth Dresser Cloth Lapper Cloth Linter Cloth Picker Clothesman Clothier Clower Clown Clowter	Club Collector Club Proprietor Coachman Coachstand Waterman Coal Backer Coal Burner Coal Dealer Coal Drawer Coal Driver Coal Filler Coal Getter Coal Heaver Coal Hewer Coal Higgler Coal Hurrier Coal Leader Coal Loader Coal Master Coal Porter Coal Runner Coal Thruster Coal Trapper Coal Trimmer Coalman Coal-meter Coal-whipper Coast Surveyor Coast Waiter Cobbleman Cobbler Cockboatman Cockfeeder Cockspur Maker Cocus Cod Placer Coffin Maker Coffineer Cohen Coiner Coke Drawer Collar Maker College Porter Collier Colliery Doorkeeper Colliery Hanger Colonus Colour Man Colour Millman Colourator Colporteur Colt Colt Labourer Comb Maker Comber Combere Commercial Traveller Commission Agent Commissionaire Companion Compasssmith Composition Frame Carver Compositor Comptometrist Computor Conder Coney Catcher Confinement Nurse Conner Constable Conveyor Cooper Copeman Coper Copper Beater	Coppersmith Coppice Dealer Coprolite Digger Coracle Maker Cordiner Cordovan Cordwainer Corfer Corn Chandler Corn Factor Corn Meter Corn Porter Cornet Corsetier Corver Coster Wife Costermonger Coteler Cotiler Cotiler Cottager Cottar Cotter Cottier Cotton Baller Cotton Dresser Cotton Feeder Cotton Rover Cotton Singer Cotton Winder Cotton Yarn Gasser Cotyler Coucher Countour Countryman Couper Couple Beggar Coupler Courant Boy Couranteer Coureur des Bois Court Factor Court Fool Court Jew Court Roller Courtier Cover Maker Cover Maker of Holloware Cow Herd Cow Leech Cox Coxswain Crank Maker Crape Weaver Crate Maker Crayer Crier Crimper Crocker Croft Bleacher Crofter Cropper Crowner Culler Cupel Maker Cuper Cupper Curator Curer Curretter Currier Customer Cutler Cycle Liner

Index of Old Occupations beginning D
Daguerreotype Artist Dairyman Damster Danter Dareman Dauber Daunsel Dawber Day Labourer Day Man Daytaleman Daytaller Deal Porter Deathsman Decimer Decoyman Decretist Deemer Delaine Weaver Delfman Delver Dempster Dental Mechanic Depater Deputy Derrickman	Designer Devil Deviller Dexter Dey Wife Die Sinker Digger Dikeman Dipper Dipper Glazier Dish Thrower Dish Turner Disher Disintegrator Attendant Distiller Distributor Diviner Dock Cooper Dock Foyboatman Docker Dockmaster Doffer Dog Breaker Dog Killer Dog Leech Dog Whipper	Domesman Domestic Domestic Servant Domestic Utensil Maker Dominie Donkeyman Door Boy Doorkeeper Doorman Dorcas Dottler Doubler Dowser Dozener Dragman Dragoman Dragoon Dragsman Drainer Draper Drapery Painter Draperyman Draughtsman Drawboy Drawer Drayman	Dredgerman Dresser Dressing Case Maker Dressing Machine Maker Dressmaker Drift Maker Drillman Dripping Man Driver Drover Drowner Drugger Druggist Drummer Dry Salter Dry Stane Dyker Dry Stone Waller Dubber Duffer Dust Damper Dust Grinder Dustman Dyer Dykeman Dyker

Index of Old Occupations beginning E
Ealdorman Earer Earth Stopper East India Man Edge Toolmaker Egg Factor Eggler Elephants Teeth Dealer Ellerman	Ellyman Elymaker Empresario Encaustic Ware Maker Endholdernn Engine Cleaner Engine Keeper Engineman Engine Smith	Engine Tenter Engine Turner Enumerator Equerry Eremite Erite Esquire Estafette Eweherd	Exchequer Exciseman Executor Executrix Expressman Eyer

Index of Old Occupations beginning F
Faber Fabricator Fabricshearer Factor Factor Agent Factory Boy Factory Labourer Factory Packer Fagetter Faker Falkner Famulus Fancy Man Fancy Pearl Worker Fancy Woman Fanner Fanwright Farandman Farm Bailiff Farm Grieve Farmer Farrier Faulkner Faunist Fawkner Fear-Nought Maker Feather Beater Feather Dresser Feather Driver Feather Wife Featherman Feeder Feller Fellmonger Fellowship Porter. Felter Feme Fence Fence Viewer Fender Smith Fent Dealer Ferator Feroner	Ferreter Ferryman Ferur Festitian Fettler Feuar Fever Fewster Fewterer Feydur Beater Fictor Fiddler Field Master Figure Painter Figurer File Cutter Filibuster Filler Fine Drawer Finisher Fire Beater Fireman Fireworker First Hand Fiscere Fish Curer Fish Fag Fish Hawker Fish Porter Fishmonger Fishwife Fitter Flagger Flagger and Tiler Flasher Flat Knocker Flatman Flatware Maker Flauner Flax Dresser Flax Heckler Flax Retter Flax Scutcher	Flaxman Flesher Fleshewer Fleshman Fletcher Flint Miller Flinter Floater Floatman Flower Painter Flowerer Flowering Muslin Flusherman Fly Coachman Fly Forger Fly Maker Fly Master Fly Proprietor Flying Stationer Flyman Fogger Foister Foisterer Foot Maiden Foot Post Foot Straightener Footboy Footman Footpad Foreman Forestarius Forester Forgeman Forger Forkner Form Fitter Fossetmaker Founder Fower Fowler Foyboatman Framar Frame Spinner Framer	Framework Knitter Franklin Freebooter Freedman Freeholder Freeman Freemason French Polisher Freshwaterman Friar Frieser Friezer Fringemaker Fripper Fripperer Friseur Fritter Frobisher Fruiterer Fruitestere Fueller Fulker Fuller Fulling Miller Fumigator Funambulist Funeral Coachman Furbisher Furnace Tender Furnaceman Furner Furnisher Furrier Fustian Cutter Fustian Loom Jobber Fustian Weaver Fuyster

Index of Old Occupations beginning G
Gabeler Gaffer Gaffman Gager Gamekeeper Gamester Ganger Gangsman Ganneker Ganter Gaoler Garcifer Garlekmonger Garthman Gas Fitter Gas Maker Gas Manager Gas Stoker Gasser Gater Gatherer Gatherer’s Boy Gatward	Gauger Gaunter Gaveller Gelder Gentleman Gentry Geometer Getter Gerund Grinder Ghillie Gigger Gilder Gillie Gimler Ginerr Ginny Ginny Tenter Ginour Girdler Glass Coachman Glassewryght Glassman Glazier	Glover Gloveress Goat Carriageman Gobar Gold Beater Gold Smith Gong Farmer Gong Scourer Gongfermour Gongfermour Gooseherd Gorseman Grace Wife G.P. Graffer Grainer Granger Graver Grazier Grecher Greengrocer Greensmith Greenwich Barber	Greenwich Hospital Pensioner Grey Cloth Dealer Grieve Grimbribber Grinder Grocer Groom of the stool Groom Porter Groover Groundsel and Chickweed Seller Guilderer Guinee Pig Gummer Gun Filer Gun Percussioner Gun Stocker Gynour Gyp

Index of Old Occupations beginning H
Haberdasher Hacker Hackler Hackman Hackney Man Haft Presser Haggler Hair Weaver Hairman Halberd Carrier Halberdier Half Timer Halter Hammerman Hand Handler Handmaid Handseller Hanger-on Handwoman Handyman Hansard Happer Harlot Harmer Beck Harness Maker Harper Hat Blocker Hat Furrer	Hatcheler Hatter Hawker Haymonger Hayrester Hayward Headborough Headsman Headswoman Heald Knitter Healder Heck Maker Heckler Heddle Manufacturer Heddler Hedge Looker Hedger Heelmaker Hellier Helper-up Hemp Heckler Henchman Hensman Henter Herald Hetheleder Hewer Higgler High Sheriff	Highwayman Hillier Hind Hinxman Hired Man Hobbler Hobler Hodsman Hog Reeve Hoggard Holder Up Holer Hollow Ware Presser Hollow Ware Squeezer Holloware Worker Holster Hoofer Hooker Hooking Machine Operator Hoop Shaver Hooper Horner Horse Capper Horse Courser Horse Hair Curler Horse Hair Dealer Horse Knave Horse Leech Horse Marine	Horseman Horser Horsler Hosier Hostelier Hosteller Hostler Hot House Man Hotpresser House Boy House Girl House Joiner House Wright Housekeeper Howdy Wife Hoyman Huckster Huffler Huissher Huissier Huntsman Hurdleman Hurdler Hurrier Husbandman Hush Shopkeeper Huxter

Index of Old Occupations beginning I
Iceman Idleman In-bye Worker Indentured Servant Infirmarer Infirmarian Inspector of Nuisances	Intelligence Office Intelligencer Intendent Interfactor Iron Charger Iron Dresser Iron Founder	Iron Miner Iron Moulder Iron Puddler Iron Roller Iron Shingler Iron Turner Iron Weigher	Ironmaster Ironmonger Iron Smith Itinerant Artist Itinerant Preacher Ivory Merchant

Index of Old Occupations beginning J
Jack Jack Frame Tenter Jack Smith Jack Tar Jacquard Operator Jagger Jailor Jakes Farmer	Jappaner Jenny Jerquer Jersey Comber Jigger Jigger Turner Jinny Job Coachman	Job Master Job Printer Jobber Jobbing Man Joiner Jollier Jongleur Journeyman	Jouster Jowter Joyner Junky Justiciar Juveler

Index of Old Occupations beginning K
Kedger Keeker Keeler Keelman Keller Kellogg	Kempster Kepegest Kiddier Kilner Kirk-master Kisser	Kitchen Maid Kitchen Porter Knacker Knight Knapper Kneller	Knock Knobbler Knocker-up Knoller Knuller

Index of Old Occupations beginning L
Labourer Lace Drawer Lace Man Lace Master Lace Mistress Lace Runner Lace Woman Ladle Liner Lady’s Maid Lady’s Tailor Lagger Lagraetman Laird Lairman Lairsman Lamp Exhauster Lamp Trimmer Lamplighter Landing Waiter Lapidary Lappet Maker Lardner	Laster Lath Renderer Lath Splitter Latten Smith Lattener Lattouner Laundress Lavender Law Clerk Layer Lead Miner Leather Currier Leatherman Leavelooker Lederer Leech Legerdemainist Legger Leghorn Presser Leightonward Lengthsman Letter Carrier	Letter Founder Letterpress Printer Licensed Messenger Licensed Victualler Lighterman Lime Burner Limner Linen Draper Linener Liner Linkerboy Linman Lister Lithographer Litster Little Sister of the Poor Litterman Liveryman Loader Loblolly Boy Lock Keeper Lockeer	Locker Lodesman Logwood Grinder Long Song Seller Longshoreman Looker Loom Sweeper Loom Winder Looper Lorimer Lormer Lot Seller Lotter Lum Swooper Lumper Lungs Lurryman Luthier Lyner

Index of Old Occupations beginning M
Machine Boy Machine Breaker Machine Man Maderer Maid Mail Agent Mail Guard Majolica Maker Maker Maker-Upper Male-Maker Mallender Malster Maltster Manchester Warehouse Man Manciple Mangle Keeper Mangle Woman Mangler Mango Mantle Cutter Mantua Maker Marble Polisher Marbler Marescallus	Marine Rope Dealer Marine Store Dealer Mariner Mark Maker Market Carrier Marksman Marl Grinder Marshall Marshman Mashmaker Mashrudder Mason Masser Master Master Lumper Master Mariner Match Maker Matchet Forger Matchet Mounter Matchgirl Mather Mawer Mealman Mechanic Medicus	Melder Mender Mendicant Mercator Mercer Metal Man Meterer Milestone Inspector Militia Man Milker Mill Scavenger Miller Miller’s Carman Milliner Millwright Millwright Apprentice Millwright Supervisor Milner Mine Captain Mint Maker Mint-master Mise Gatherer Mocado Maker Modeller Molitor	Mondayman Monger Monthly Nurse Moocher Mordant Maker Moss Reeve Mould Runner Moulder Mountebank Mudlark Muffin Carrier Muffin Maker Muger Mugger Muggler Mugman Mule Scavenger Mule Spinner Muleskinner Muleteer Multurer Mumper Musicker Mustard Man Mustarder

Index of Old Occupations beginning N
Nailor Naperer Napier Narrow Weaver Navigator Navvy Naylor	Neatherd Neatsfoot Oil Dealer Necessary Woman Necker Nedeller Needle Pointer Netter	Night Soilman Nightman Nightwalker Nimgimmer Nipper Nit Picker Nob Thatcher	Noon Tender Notary Noterer Nun Nurse Child

Index of Old Occupations beginning O
Oakum Worker Odd Man Oil Colour Man Oil Miller Oiler Oilman Olitor Oliver Smith	Onsetter Orderly Ordinary Keeper Ordinary Seaman Orrery Maker Orrice Weaver Osier Peeler Osler	Osnard Ostiary Ostler Out Crier Outdoor Worker Outrider Outworker Overlooker	Overman Overseer Owler Oyster Dredger Oyster Hawker

Index of Old Occupations beginning P
Pack Thread Spinner Packer Packing Casemaker Packman Pad Maker Page Painter Paintress Paling Man Palister Palmer Paneler Pannarius Pannier Man Pannifex Pansmith Panter Pantile Polisher Pantler Pantographer Paper Colourer Paper Cutter Paper Dealer Paper Factor Paper Hanger Paper Presser Paper Stainer Paperer Parchmenter Pardoner Pargeter Parian Maker Paritor Parker Parochus Passage Keeper Pasteler Pastor Paternosterer Patler Patten Maker Pattener Pattern Card Maker Pattern Maker Pauper Paver Pavyler Pawnbroker Pedascule Peddler Pedestrian Pedlar Pee-dee Peeler	Peever Pelterer Pensioner Perambulator Perchemear Peregrinator Periwig Maker Peruke Maker Peruker Pessoner Petardier Peterman Pettifogger Petty Chapman Pew Opener Pewterer Pharmacist Pharmacist's Mate Philosophical Instrument Maker Phonologist Phrenologist Picker Picker Maker Pictor Piece Broker Piece Master Piece Worker Piecener Piecer Pig Jobber Pig Man Pigmaker Pikelet Maker Pike Helve Maker Pikeman Piker Piler Piller Pilot Pin Pointer Pinder Piner Pinner Pinner Up Pioneer Pipe Maker Piper Pistor Pit Brow Lass Pit Brusher Pit Head Man Pit Man Pit Road Man	Pitcher Plaicher Plain Worker Plaisterer Plaiter Planker Plasher Plasterer Platcher Plate Maker Platelayer Playderer Pleacher Plomer Ploughboy Ploughwright Plumassier Plumber Plumbium Worker Plumer Pluralist Podiatrist Point Man Poetaster Pointer Pointmaker Pointsman Poldave Worker Poleman Polenter Polentier Poleturner Poller Ponderator Pony Driver Porcher Portable Soup Maker Porter Portmanteau Maker Post Boy Poster Postilion Postillion Pot Arch Man Pot Boy Pot Burner Pot Man Potato Badger Potter Potter's Carrier Potter's Jollier Potter's Mould Runner Potter's Presser Potter's Thrower	Poulter Poulterer Poultryman Powder Monkey Power Loom Tuner Powler Poynter Practical Brewer Preceptor Preceptress Prentice Press Emptier Press Maker Press Man Presser Prick Louise Pricker Prig Napper Prigger Primate Print Cutter Printer Printer Compositor Printer's Boy Printer's Devil Printfield Worker Proctor Prop Bobby Prothonary Prothonotary Provision Dealer Prow Smith Publican Puddler Puffler Pug Miller Puggard Pugger Punky Pupil Teacher Pure Finder Pure Gatherer Purl Seller Purser Pursuivant Purveyor Pusser Putter Putter-In Pykemonger Pynner Pyrometer Attendant

Index of Old Occupations beginning Q
Quarantine Quarrel Picker Quarrerius Quarrier	Quarry Man Quassillarius Quay Clerk Queensware Potter	Quencher Quiller Quillwright Quilter	Quiltress Quister Quizzing Glass Supplier Qwylwryghte

Index of Old Occupations beginning R
Rack Maiden Raff Merchant Raffia Man Raffman Rag Cutter Rag Gatherer Rag Man Rag and Bone Man Rag Picker Rag Sorter Rag-stabber Railroad Porter Raker Ratoner Rattlewatch Reacher for Drawing Reaper	Rectifier Redar Red Leader Redsmith Reeder Reedmaker Reeler Reeve Reever Regarder Registrar Relict Relief Stamp Maker Relieving Officer Renovator Resurrection Man Revenuer	Rickmaster Riddler Rider Rider Out Riding Officer Riftere Rigger Ring Spinner Rippier Ripper Riverman Roadman Rope Spinner Rockgetter Rockman Rodman Roll Turner	Roller Coverer Rolleyway Man Roman Cementer Roman Plasterer Roper Rotarius Rover Royal Naval Reserve Rubbisher Rubbler Rugman Rule Maker Rully Man Runner

Index of Old Occupations beginning S
Sacristan Sad Iron Grinder Saddle Tree Maker Saddler Safernman Saggar Maker Salinator Saloonist Salt Boiler Salter Saltpetre Man Sandesman Sandwasher Sarcenet Weaver Savant Sawbones Sawer Sawyer Say Weaver Scabbler Scagiola Maker Scaleraker Scavelman Scavenger Scholar Schoolmarm Schoolmaster Schoolmistress Schrimpschonger Schumacker Sclater Scotch Draper Scotchman Scourer Screener Scribbler Scribe Scriber Scribler Scrimer Scrivener Scrivener Notary Scrutineer Scullerman Scullery Maid Scullion Scutcher Sea Fencible Seafarer Seal Presser Searcher Secret Springer Seedsman Seeker of the Dead Seinter Self Acting Minder Semi Lorer Sempster Sempstress Seneschal Serge Maker Settmaker Sewer Hunter Sewer Rat	Sewing Clerk Sewster Sexton Shagreen Case Maker Shallooner Shantyman Sharecropper Shearer Shearman Sheath Maker Sheepman Shepster Sheriff Sherman Shingler Ship Chandler Ship Engineer Ship Master Ship Stager Ship’s Husband Shipwright Shirt Sewer Shoe Clicker Shoe Finder Shoe Smith Shoe Wiper Shoemaker Shop Boy Shop Girl Shot Firer Shrager Shrieve Shrimper Shuffler Shunter Shuttle Maker Shuttler Sick Visitor Sickleman Sidesman Sifker Silk Drawer Silk Dresser Silk Dyer Silk Engine Turner Silk Mercer Silk Picker Silk Piecer Silk Steward Silk Thrower Silk Twister Silk Winder Silker Silkman Silversmith Simpler Sin-eater Sinker Sinker Maker Sissor Sizer Skelper Skepper Skinkster	Skinner Skip Maker Skipper Slagger Slaper Slasher Slate River Slater Slaymaker Slinger Slopseller Slubber Slubber Doffer Slubbing Frame Fitter Smallware Maker Smelter Smiddy Smith Smoke Doctor Smugsmith Snob Snobscat Snuffer Maker Soap Maker Soap Boiler Soap Licker Soaper Sojourner Sojourner Clothier Soldier Sole Cutter Solicitor Solid Iron Grinder Sondesman Soper Sorter Sortor Souter Soyor Spallier Spade Tree Maker Spade Tree Turner Spectioner Sperviter Spicer Spindle and Fly Maker Spinner Spinster Spirit Merchant Spit Boy Spittleman Splitter Spooner Sprig Maker Sprigger Spring Maker Spuller Spurrer Spurrier Squarewright Squire Stabler Stab-rag Stainer	Stall Keeper Stall Man Stamp Man Stampmaster Stationary Engine Driver Stationary Engineer Stationer Statist Staymaker Steam Hammer Driver Steeplejack Steersman Stenterer Step Boy Stepper Stevedore Stick Finisher Stick Maker Still Room Maid Stock Turner Stockinger Stockinger Stoker Stone Dresser Stone Hewer Stone Picker Stonewarden Stover Stowyer Stravaiger Straw Joiner Straw Plaiter Strawman Streaker Street Boy Street Orderly Stretcher Strickler Striker Stringer Stripper Stuff Weaver Stuffgownsman Sucksmiith Sugar Baker Sugar Grocer Sugarer Sumner Sumper Supercargo Superintendent Surface Man Sutler Swailer Swain Sweep Sweeper Swell Maker Swineherd Swineyard Swingler Sword Cutler Sword Slipper

Index of Old Occupations beginning T
Tabernarius Tabler Tackler Tacksman Taker In Taker Off Tallow Chandler Tally Clerk Tally Fellow Tallyman Tambour Worker Tambourer Tanbark Stripper Tanner Tanners Beamsman Taper Weaver Taperer Tapicer Tapiter Tapley Tapsman Tapster Tarboy Tasker Tasseler Taverner Tawer Tawyer Teamer Teamer Man Teamster Tearer Teemer Teerer Teinter Teizer Telegraph Cable Jointer Telegraphist Tenementer Tenter Tenterer Textor	Thacker Thatcher Thecker Third-borough Thrasher Thresher Throstle Spinner Thrower Throwster Thruster Ticket Collector Ticket Taker Ticket Writer Tickney Man Tickney Woman Tide Gauger Tide Surveyor Tide Waiter Tidesman Tier Boy Tierer Tiger Tiler Tiller Tillman Time Ironer Timekeeper Timoneer Tin Streamer Tinctor Tinker Tinman Tinner Tinplate Worker Tinsmith Tinter Tipper Tippler Tipstaff Tirewoman Tisserand Tisserande	Tixtor Tobacco Spinner Tobacco Twister Todhunter Todman Toerag Toilinette Maker Toll Agent Toll Collector Toller Tollgate Keeper Tollgatherer Tollie Tollkeeper Tonsor Tool Helver Top Sawyer Topman Topsman Tosher Toter Touch Holer Tow Card Maker Town Chamberlain Town Crier Town Husband Town Waiter Townsman Towsman Tozer Trackman Trackwalker Trammer Trampler Tranqueter Translator Tranter Trapper Travers Treen Maker Treenail Maker Trencher Maker	Trencher-Man Trepanger Trimmer Tripe Boiler Tripper Man Troacher Troner Trouchman Trouncer Trover Truchmam Trug Maker Trugger Trusser Tubber Tube Drawer Tubman Tucker Tucker-In Tuner Turkey Red Dyer Turnbroach Turner Turning Boy Turnkey Turnpike Keeper Turnspit Tweenie Tweeny Twiller Twist Hand Twist Tobacco Maker Twister Twisterer Type Founder Tyre Roller Tyresmith

Index of Old Occupations beginning U
Ulnager Umbrella Tipper Under Gardener Under-Viewer Underlay Stitcher	Underlooker Underpresser Understudy Undertaker Underviewer	Underwood Dealer Unfortunate Upholder Upholsterer Upholsteress	Upper Stitcher Uptwister Upright Worker

Index of Old Occupations beginning V
Vabster Vaginarius Valet Valuator Vanman Varler Vassal	Vatman Venator Verderer Verge Maker Verger Vermin Trapper Verrier	Vestment Maker Vestry Messenger Viceman Victualler Viewer Villein Vintager	Vinter Vintner Violin string maker Virginal Player Vocalist Vulcan

Index of Old Occupations beginning W
Wabster Wadding maker Wafer maker Waggoner Wailer Wain house proprietor Wainius Wainwright Waiter Waitman Wakeman Waker Walker Walkster: Waller Want Catcher Wanter Warder Wardrobe Dealer Warper Warrener Washman Wasteman Watch Cap Maker Watch Case Joint Finisher Watch Dial Enameller Watch Dial Painter Watch Engine Turner Watch Examiner Watch Finisher Watch Fusee Cutter	Watch Guilder Watch Jeweller Watch Motion Worker Watch Movement Maker Watch Pendant Maker Watch Pinion Maker Watcher Watchman Water Bailiff Water Gilder Water Leader Water Leder Water Loder Water Meadow Drowner Waterguard Waterman Wattle Hurdle Maker Waulker Waulkmiller Waver Way Maker Way Man Wayland Weather Spy Weaver Webber Operator Webster Weigh Clerk Weigher Well Sinker Wellmaster	Wellwright Wet Glover Wet Nurse Wetter Whacker Wharfinger Wheel Tapper Wheeler Wheelwright Wherryman Whey Cutter Whig Whim Whimseyman Whipcord Maker Whipcorder Whipper-in Whipping Boy Whisket Weaver Whit Cooper White Cooper White Limer Whitear Whitener Whitening Roll Maker Whitesmith Whitester Whitewing Whitster Whittawer Willeyer	Willow Feeder Wincey Weaver Winder Windster Winner Wire Drawer Wireworker Withy Peeler Woad Dyer Wobster Wonkey Scooper Wood Ranger Wood Ward Woodbreaker Wool Billy Piecer Wool Burler Wool Comber Wool Driver Wool Factor Wool Grower Wool Sorter Wool Stapler Wool Winder Woolsted Man Worsted Man Wrecker Wright Writer Wyrth

Index of Old Occupations beginning X
Xylographer	Xylopola

Index of Old Occupations beginning Y
Yagger Yardman	Yarn Bleacher Yarn Dresser	Yatman Yearman	Yeoman Yowler

Index of Old Occupations beginning Z
Zigarius Zinc Worker	Zincographer Zitherist	Zoetrope Maker Zoographer	Zythepsarist

You may also find the Site Search box on the top right useful for locating the definition of a particular trade or job.

This dictionary is my own work, and copyright Jane Hewitt. I sometimes find unauthorised (i.e. stolen) copies of my website content appearing on other people's websites. If you should read a group of identical glossary definitions elsewhere on the web, consider whether such sites are reputable or not.

	The Worst Jobs in History by Tony Robinson
As befits the man behind Baldrick, Tony Robinson has uncovered life in the underbelly of history. Whether it's swilling out the crotch of a knight's soiled armour after the battle of Agincourt, risking his neck in the rigging of HMS Victory, or as 'Groomer of the Stool' going to places where none of Henry VIII's six wives would venture, Tony endures the worst jobs imaginable to get to the bottom (sometimes literally) of the story. From the Roman invasion to the reign of Queen Victoria, Tony has met the challenge of seeking out the worst jobs of each era. Richly illustrated with artwork, photographs and diagrams, "The Worst Jobs in History" really gets into the grime of how life was for ordinary people, and provides a vivid alternative (and fairly disgusting) history of Britain.

The Worst Jobs in History by Tony Robinson

As befits the man behind Baldrick, Tony Robinson has uncovered life in the underbelly of history. Whether it's swilling out the crotch of a knight's soiled armour after the battle of Agincourt, risking his neck in the rigging of HMS Victory, or as 'Groomer of the Stool' going to places where none of Henry VIII's six wives would venture, Tony endures the worst jobs imaginable to get to the bottom (sometimes literally) of the story. From the Roman invasion to the reign of Queen Victoria, Tony has met the challenge of seeking out the worst jobs of each era.

Richly illustrated with artwork, photographs and diagrams, "The Worst Jobs in History" really gets into the grime of how life was for ordinary people, and provides a vivid alternative (and fairly disgusting) history of Britain.

	"Dictionary of Old Occupations" by Jane Hewitt
Interested in history? Researching your family tree and wondering what those old occupations you found on census records actually mean? Maybe you are a creative writer looking for details to give your work authenticity? The Dictionary of Old Occupations explains the meaning of job titles, trades, professions and terms dating back through the centuries. A handy reference ebook for researchers, creative writers and history buffs. Jane Hewitt is an experienced, professional genealogist. Aided by her husband she compiled the Dictionary of Old Occupations over several years. This A-Z is an informative and fascinating read, giving insight into the day to day experiences of real people from all walks of life over many centuries. Also available from Smashwords.

"Dictionary of Old Occupations" by Jane Hewitt

Interested in history? Researching your family tree and wondering what those old occupations you found on census records actually mean? Maybe you are a creative writer looking for details to give your work authenticity? The Dictionary of Old Occupations explains the meaning of job titles, trades, professions and terms dating back through the centuries.

A handy reference ebook for researchers, creative writers and history buffs. Jane Hewitt is an experienced, professional genealogist. Aided by her husband she compiled the Dictionary of Old Occupations over several years. This A-Z is an informative and fascinating read, giving insight into the day to day experiences of real people from all walks of life over many centuries.
Also available from Smashwords.

	A Dictionary of Old Trades, Titles and Occupations by Colin Waters
Want a printed book providing further information about old occupations? Check out this pbook by Colin Waters. The book is a useful reference for any family tree research project. The only reason I do not own a copy myself is to ensure I was not influenced in the writing of my own dictionary! Update September 2011 - Now available as an ebook.

A Dictionary of Old Trades, Titles and Occupations by Colin Waters

Want a printed book providing further information about old occupations? Check out this pbook by Colin Waters.

The book is a useful reference for any family tree research project. The only reason I do not own a copy myself is to ensure I was not influenced in the writing of my own dictionary!

Update September 2011 - Now available as an ebook.

Further information

Follow this link for Historical Books.