turnspit

== English == === Etymology === From turn +‎ spit. === Noun === turnspit (plural turnspits) A person employed in turning a spit for the purpose of roasting meat. Synonym of roasting jack. (archaic, derogatory, by extension) A person engaged in some menial occupation. (archaic) Ellipsis of turnspit dog. c. 1723, William Meston, The Knight Sometimes, like turnspit cur, he reels,Sweating in his mysterious wheels;And by his motion, tho' he fanciesThat higher up he still advances,Yet, press'd down with his nat'ral weight,After much toiling, still the KnightIs found to be in the same placeWhere first he did begin his race;And has done less, for all his boasting,Than turnspit dog the goose when roasting.