Dogsbody

A 'dogsbody' (also spelled 'dog's body') refers to a person, typically of low status or rank, who is assigned menial, unpleasant, and often repetitive tasks. They are essentially the general gofer, the one who handles the grunt work and does whatever is required by their superiors. This individual is often expected to work long hours, perform tasks others avoid, and receive little recognition or appreciation for their efforts. The term implies a lack of autonomy and the need to be readily available for diverse and often undesirable responsibilities. Historically, the term emerged, especially in British English, within military, academic, or professional settings. It suggests a position of subservience, where the individual is primarily valued for their willingness to carry out orders and complete whatever needs doing, regardless of its nature.

Dogsbody meaning with examples

• During the internship, Sarah quickly became the dogsbody of the office. She fetched coffee, made copies, answered phones, and performed all the tasks no one else wanted, however, the experience provided her with essential business knowledge.
• The new recruit found himself the dogsbody in the engineering firm, constantly tasked with cleaning the workshop and running errands while his colleagues worked on more complex projects. His superiors hoped this would prepare him for future responsibilities.
• In the film industry, the aspiring actor was a dogsbody on set, responsible for carrying equipment, running lines, and fetching food, but he was grateful to be involved in the creative process at any level.
• As the dogsbody in the research lab, John spent weeks meticulously washing glassware and preparing solutions, tasks that were essential to the research project, even though they were mundane.
• Before becoming a successful author, the writer was a dogsbody for a publishing house, reading manuscripts, making phone calls and doing general office duties, which, in her case, developed her passion for literature.