General
gig economy
What does gig economy mean?
A labor market characterized by short-term contracts, freelance work, and on-demand tasks rather than permanent jobs, often mediated by apps and platforms like ride-share and delivery services.
"He pieced together a living in the gig economy driving rideshares and delivering groceries."
Origin
'Gig' as slang for a job dates to 1920s jazz musicians; 'gig economy' entered common use in the 2010s.
Frequently asked questions
What is the gig economy?
A labor market built on short-term contracts, freelance work, and on-demand tasks rather than permanent jobs, often organized through apps and platforms.
Where does the word gig come from?
'Gig' as slang for a job dates back to 1920s jazz musicians; 'gig economy' became common in the 2010s.
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