The word “maid” has its roots in 12th century Middle English when it was used as a shorthand for “maiden,” a word which, although used of both sexes, was often used to describe “a virgin; a young, unmarried woman.” It wasn't until the 1300s when it began to take on its more modern form as a word to describe domestic ...

Maids were once part of an elaborate hierarchy in great houses, where the retinue of servants stretched up to the housekeeper and butler, responsible for female and male employees respectively. It was the best and most common way that women could earn money, especially lower class women.

Hiring a live-in housekeeper can provide substantial benefits to homeowners. A live-in housekeeper can bring expertise in cleaning and organizational skills—even going so far as deep spring cleaning —freeing up more of your time while also creating a more orderly living space.

Nursery maid: Also an “upstairs maid”, but one who worked in the children's nursery, maintaining fires, cleanliness, and good order. Reported to the Nanny rather than the Housekeeper. Kitchen maid: A “below stairs” maid who reported to the Cook, and assisted in running the kitchens.