What is beck and call?

The phrase "beck and call" refers to being readily available and responsive to someone's requests or demands. It signifies a level of subservience or constant availability, where a person is expected to attend to another's needs at any moment. The origin of "beck and call" lies in two separate terms: "beck," which is an old term for a nod or a discreet gesture used to signal someone silently, and "call," which is a more direct and vocal way of getting someone's attention. When combined, "beck and call" implies a comprehensive readiness to assist, whether through subtle cues or overt instructions.