parlor maid

A parlor maid was a domestic servant in wealthy households, typically responsible for duties in the public rooms where guests were received.

She cleaned and maintained the parlor, drawing room, and dining room, answered the door, and served tea or refreshments to visitors.

The position ranked above housemaids who handled rougher work but below the housekeeper or lady's maid.

The term is now largely historical, associated with the era of large household staffs in Victorian and Edwardian homes.