ˈkȯrˌvā, ̷ ̷ˈ ̷ ̷ noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English corvee, from Middle French, from Medieval Latin corrogata, from Late Latin, contribution, collection, from Latin, feminine of corrogatus, past participle of corrogare to bring together by entreaty, from com- + rogare to ask, request — more at right
1. : unpaid labor (as on roads) for a day or longer period due from a vassal to his lord
2. : unpaid or partially paid labor exacted usually in lieu of taxes by public authorities (as for the construction or repair of highways, bridges, or canals)
3. : an onerous or unpleasant and unavoidable task
the daily corvée of bringing … the women in to shop — A.J.Liebling