yeoman

YEOMAN, noun [See Common.] 1. A common man, or one of the plebeians, of the first or most respectable class; a freeholder; a man free born. A yeoman in England is considered as next in order to the gentry. The word is little used in the United States, unless as a title in law proceedings and instruments, designating occupation, and this only in particular states. But yeomanry is much used. 2. An officer in the kings household, of a middle rank between a gentleman and a groom. 3. In ships, an inferior officer under the boatswain, gunner or carpenters, charged with the stowage, account and distribution of the stores. 4. A name or title of certain soldiers; as yeomen of the guard.