petite main

French

Etymology

(This etymology is missing or incomplete. Please add to it, or discuss it at the Etymology scriptorium.)

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /pə.tit mɛ̃/

• Audio:

  (file)

Noun

petite main m (plural petites mains)

1. (sewing) trainee seamstress, assistant seamstress, low-rank seamstress

   Coordinate term: première main

2. (derogatory, figuratively) low-paid worker, worker employed to do menial jobs, dogsbody

   Synonym: larbin

Usage notes

• Often used in the plural.

See also

• petit bras