peon

noun

Etymology: From a combination of Middle French pion, peon and Spanish peón, both from Late Latin pedōnem (“pedestrian”). Doublet of pawn.

1. A lowly person; a peasant or serf; a labourer who is obliged to do menial work.
2. A person of low rank or importance.

   “He is well dressed in cheap clothing. Like an office peon whose wife works in a laundry.”

3. A messenger, foot soldier, or native policeman.