Pronunciation: [slˈe͡ɪv wˈe͡ɪd͡ʒ] (IPA) 
The term 'slave wage' refers to the practice of paying workers an extremely low wage which is almost akin to slavery. Its IPA transcription is /sleɪv weɪdʒ/. The word 'slave' is pronounced as /sleɪv/ with a long 'a' sound, while the word 'wage' is pronounced as /weɪdʒ/ with a diphthong of 'ei' and the ending sound of 'j'. This term is commonly used to describe the exploitation of laborers in various industries worldwide.
Slave wage refers to an extremely low level of pay or compensation given to workers, which is often seen as exploitative and unfair, resembling the paltry wages paid to enslaved individuals historically. The term "slave wage" draws a parallel between the oppressive conditions faced by enslaved people in order to highlight the excessively low compensation provided in certain labor systems.
A slave wage typically denotes wages that are insufficient for workers to maintain a decent standard of living, and may not even cover basic necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare. It implies the absence of fair remuneration for the time, effort, and skills invested by an individual in their work duties. The term implies an economic power imbalance, with employers benefiting from the labor of workers while paying them way below what could be considered just or equitable.
The use of the term "slave wage" is often associated with discussions surrounding labor rights, exploitation, and income inequality. It aims to expose instances of systemic injustice where workers may be trapped in impoverished conditions due to the inability to negotiate better wages or alternative employment opportunities.
The term carries important connotations of the historical exploitation of enslaved individuals, emphasizing the severe and unjust treatment they endured. By using the term "slave wage" in a modern context, it prompts reflection on the ongoing struggle for fair compensation and dignity in the workforce.
The word "slave wage" is a combination of two terms: "slave" and "wage". Let's break down their etymology separately:
1. Slave:
The term "slave" originated from the Middle English word "sclave" (pronounced "sklavuh"), which was derived from the Medieval Latin word "Sclavus" meaning "Slav". This term referred to the Slavic peoples who were historically captured, bought, and sold as slaves by various European powers during the Middle Ages. Over time, the term "slave" became associated with individuals who were captured or born into a condition of servitude, often used as laborers without personal freedom or ownership of their own labor.
2. Wage:
The word "wage" has its roots in the Old English word "wæge", which meant "a payment for services rendered" or "compensation".
