To carry or drag something heavy or awkward.

Origin: The word 'schlep' originates from Yiddish, a language historically used by Ashkenazi Jews. It derives from the Middle High German word 'schleppen', which means to drag or pull. The Germanic root can be traced back to Proto-Germanic *slēpaną, meaning to slip or slide. Historical and Cultural Context: First attested in the late 19th century, 'schlep' became part of the American English lexicon through the influx of Yiddish-speaking immigrants. It was commonly used in the context of physical labor or the effort involved in a task. Evolution: Over time, 'schlep' has maintained its original meaning but has also gained a metaphorical sense, used to describe any tedious or tiresome task. Cognates can be found in other Germanic languages, such as Dutch 'slepen'. Modern Relevance: Today, 'schlep' is widely used in English, especially in areas with significant Jewish communities. It appears in casual speech and writing, often to humorously emphasize the effort involved in an activity.

Despite its origins in Yiddish, 'schlep' has been embraced by English speakers worldwide, and it even appeared in a popular 1980s song by The Weather Girls titled 'It's Raining Men'.