Eunuchs, also known as palace attendants. Eunuchs wielded great power, especially in the Ming dynasty, when their authority surpassed even the emperor’s. However, “eunuch” and “palace attendant” are not the same thing.
According to historical records:
Palace attendant: Any official who served the emperor could be called a palace attendant.
Eunuch: A palace servant who was necessarily castrated.
