Do You Know: Why are wages called "screw"? (colour litho)

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Do You Know: Why are wages called "screw"? (colour litho)

8668144 Do You Know: Why are wages called "screw"? (colour litho) by English School, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Why are wages called "screw"? The word "screw" has nothing to do with the mechanical contrivance used for holding, supporting and fastening objects, although wages have been a means of support since the days of feudalism. The origin apparently comes from a 19th century custom of putting wages into a small piece of paper and screwing the ends up to form a receptacle to secure the coins. It was the forerunner of the present pay envelope, which was invented by a Paris stationer about a century ago. The word had common usage before 1859 - metal screws were mass produced about 1854. Illustration for one of a set of 50 "Do You Know?" cigarette cards issued by Carreras in 1939.); © Look and Learn

Media ID 38521478

© © Look and Learn / Bridgeman Images

Holy Mass Learn Mass Masses Papering Papers Religious Ceremony 1930 1939 Years 30 30s 1930 1939 Years 30s 19301939 1933 34 Educating General Knowledge Knowing Years 1930 Years 30 Years Thirty

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print titled "Do You Know: Why are wages called 'screw'?" by the English School from the 20th century delves into the intriguing origins of a common term. The image, part of a set of 50 "Do You Know?" cigarette cards issued by Carreras in 1939, showcases a colorful lithograph that invites viewers to ponder the historical context behind the word "screw" when referring to wages. Contrary to popular belief, the term has nothing to do with mechanical devices but rather stems from a fascinating 19th-century custom. Back then, wages were placed in small pieces of paper and twisted at both ends to create a secure receptacle for coins. This practice eventually evolved into today's pay envelope system, which was invented by a Paris stationer around a century ago. The artwork not only educates us on this unique piece of trivia but also highlights how language evolves over time. It serves as a reminder that even seemingly mundane words can have rich and unexpected histories waiting to be uncovered. With its vibrant colors and detailed depiction, this print is sure to spark curiosity and ignite conversations about etymology and cultural practices from days gone by.

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