What Does The Phrase "carry Coals" Mean?

The phrase "carry coals" refers to the submissive act of bearing with indignities tamely and continuing with ones tasks or job. It is believed that it originated as a result of the very mean nature of the related occupation. It was used extensively by dramatist to depict plight. The phrase is not a part of and is different from the phrase "carry coals to Newcastle" which refers to indulging in some pointless activity, as coals abound in Newcastle.

Examples of using the phrase include "She was insulted and berated daily by her in laws yet she continued to carry coals for them" or "Ron did not want to be carrying coals for an ungrateful lot as these" or "These days hardly any one bothers to carry coals for ingrates, the good old days are no more".

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