Janitor
/ˈdʒæn.ɪ.tər/noun
A person employed to clean and maintain a building.
Did you know?The term 'janitor' comes from the Latin 'ianitor', meaning 'doorkeeper', highlighting the guardian aspect of this role, dating back to early Roman times.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
ianitor
“Doorkeeper, guardian, or gatekeeper.”
Old French
Old French
janitor
“One who opens the door or serves at the entrance.”
Middle English
Middle English
janitor
“A custodian or doorkeeper of a residence or building.”
Modern English
English
janitor
“An employee responsible for cleaning and maintaining a building.”
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