Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

roustabout

noun
/ˈraʊstəˌbaʊt/
Definition
A laborer employed in temporary or unskilled work, especially in oil fields or circus performances.
Examples
  • The roustabout worked long hours setting up equipment for the festival.
  • During the busy season, many roustabouts would be hired to help out at the oil rigs.
  • The circus needed roustabouts to handle the animals and set up the tents.
Meaning
Roustabout refers to a person who does various types of manual labor or odd jobs, often in a physical or demanding setting.
Synonyms
  • Laborer
  • Worker
  • Hand
  • Driller