jobless

American  

[job-lis] / ˈdʒɒb lɪs /

adjective

1. without a job.

2. noting or pertaining to people without jobs, especially to those who are seeking employment.

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noun

(used with a plural verb)

1. unemployed people collectively, especially those who are seeking a job.

ˈjobless British  

/ ˈdʒɒblɪs /

adjective

1. 1. unemployed

   2. ( as collective noun; preceded by the )

      the jobless

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Other Word Forms

• joblessness noun

Etymology

Origin of jobless

First recorded in 1800–10; job ¹ + -less

Example Sentences

The eurozone’s jobless rate edged higher in February, coming off a record low at the start of the year, ahead of the inflation shock and uncertainty prompted by the conflict in the Middle East.

From The Wall Street Journal

While job openings remain off their highs after the pandemic, low jobless claims readings have reinforced a low-hire, low-fire jobs environment.

From The Wall Street Journal

Low jobless claims signal employers are not implementing widespread layoffs, despite a relatively cooler labor market.

From The Wall Street Journal

The dollar rose as U.S. jobless claims increased slightly.

From The Wall Street Journal

Data on initial jobless claims are due at 8:30 a.m.

From MarketWatch