Padrone Meaning in English
word
Definition
A "padrone" was a labor broker, especially in the 19th and early 20th century, often an immigrant who helped other immigrants find jobs but also controlled and sometimes exploited them.
Usage & Nuances
Historical and somewhat academic, mainly used to discuss immigrant labor in the past, especially Italian or Chinese contexts in the United States. Not a general term for "boss." Often carries a negative connotation of exploitation.
Example Sentences
Many Italian immigrants relied on a padrone to find work.
basic
The padrone lived in the same neighborhood as his workers.
basic
Many padrone took a part of the workers' wages.
basic
In old New York, the padrone system kept immigrants working long hours for very little pay.
natural
My great-grandfather warned others about the tricks some padrones played.
natural
After years under a padrone, the workers united and demanded better conditions.
natural