gig economy

[gig i-kon-uh-mee]

noun

Slang.

1. an economic sector consisting of part-time, temporary, and freelance jobs.

   rapid growth of the online gig economy.

Word History and Origins

Origin of gig economy¹

First recorded in 2005–10; gig ¹ ( def. ) (in the sense “a job of uncertain duration”) + economy ( def. )

Example Sentences

“The gig economy isn’t going away, but worker exploitation doesn’t have to be part of it.”

From Los Angeles Times

The case underscores ongoing challenges in the tech-driven gig economy, where enforcement of accessibility standards often depends on individual drivers and company oversight.

From Salon

He works hard for his laughs, sometimes too hard, but he’s an endearing imp — an overwhelmed freelancer trying to survive the unforgiving gig economy of his age.

From Los Angeles Times

And this is without any mention of the more recent and specific concerns like the rising gig economy or the effects of technological advancements.

From Salon

Kristof is the editor of SideHusl.com, an independent site that reviews hundreds of moneymaking opportunities in the gig economy.

From Los Angeles Times