domètiques

Domètiques is a Catalan term primarily associated with the feminine plural form of the adjective domèstic, used to describe things related to the home or household life. In standard spelling, the feminine plural is domèstiques, and the word can function as an adjective or as a noun when referring to people who perform domestic work. For example, feines domèstiques means household chores, while les domèstiques can refer to domestic workers (typically women) in contexts where the feminine form is appropriate.

Etymology and usage: Domèstic derives from Latin domesticus, through Old French into Catalan as domèstic. The modern Catalan term domèstiques reflects typical gendered plural formation in the language. When used as a noun, it often denotes individuals engaged in domestic service, though the masculine plural domèstics is used for male workers in the same field.

Scope and examples: The concept covers activities carried out inside the home, such as cleaning, cooking, laundry, and maintenance—collectively known as feines domèstiques. It also encompasses the workforce that provides these services, including formal domestic workers and those in informal arrangements. Language use can indicate gender and professional status, with domèstiques commonly appearing in feminine contexts.

Societal context: Domestic labor has historically been gendered in many societies, shaping discussions about labor rights, wages, and working conditions. In contemporary Catalan-speaking regions, there is ongoing discourse about recognizing and regulating domestic work, ensuring fair compensation, and extending legal protections to workers in the sector.

See also: domèstic, feines domèstiques, trebal domèstic, catalan language, domestic work.