piece rate

American  

noun

1. compensation based on a worker's quantitative output or production, usually an agreed sum per article of work turned out.

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piece rate British  

noun

1. a fixed rate paid according to the quantity produced

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Etymology

Origin of piece rate

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

"They told me the labor contractor fired them because they were working on a piece rate and weren't picking fast enough," recalls Cruz, who himself works as a broccoli cutter.

From Salon • Dec. 13, 2022

Physical health challenges can create stress for workers, many of whom are paid by piece rate.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 20, 2022

About 85% of garment workers do not earn the minimum wage and are instead paid a piece rate of between 2-6 cents per piece.

From Reuters • Sep. 28, 2021

“It doesn’t matter if you’re paid by piece rate or by client. Workers need to feel safe in coming forward if there’s a problem,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 2, 2017

The weavers at the Massachusetts Corporation had all refused the agent’s demand that they each tend four looms and take a piece rate reduction as well.

From "Lyddie" by Katherine Paterson