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Freelancer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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freelancer

[หˆfriห.lษ‘หnsษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

job opportunity

A person who works as a self-employed individual, typically offering services to multiple clients or companies. Freelancers often have flexible work schedules and can work from anywhere.

Synonyms

consultant, contractor, self-employed.

Examples of usage

  • She decided to become a freelancer after leaving her full-time job.
  • Many companies hire freelancers for short-term projects.
Context #2 | Noun

creative industry

A professional who provides creative services such as writing, design, or photography on a project basis. Freelancers are often hired for their specialized skills and expertise.

Synonyms

creative professional, freelance artist, independent contractor.

Examples of usage

  • The magazine hired a freelancer to write an article for their next issue.
  • Freelancers in the design industry often work on a freelance basis.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'freelancer' dates back to the 14th century, originally referring to knights who sold their swords for hire.
  • In the 19th century, it began to apply more broadly to writers and artists who worked independently rather than for a single employer.

Modern Workforce

  • In recent years, the number of freelancers has dramatically increased, with millions choosing gig economy jobs for flexibility.
  • Freelancing is projected to become a significant part of the workforce, with estimates suggesting that by 2027, a large portion of the U.S. workforce will be freelancers.

Benefits and Challenges

  • Freelancers enjoy the freedom to choose their projects, often leading to increased job satisfaction compared to traditional jobs.
  • However, freelancers also face challenges like inconsistent income and the need to manage their own taxes and benefits.

Pop Culture

  • Freelancing is often portrayed in films and TV shows, showcasing the exciting and unpredictable lifestyle of self-employed individuals.
  • Popular platforms like Upwork and Fiverr have turned freelancing into a recognizable career choice, connecting freelancers with global clients.

Technology Impact

  • The rise of digital tools has greatly facilitated freelancing, allowing people to work from anywhere in the world with just a laptop and internet access.
  • Social media and networking sites have become crucial for freelancers to showcase their work and connect with potential clients.

Origin of 'freelancer'

The term 'freelancer' dates back to the early 19th century when it was used to describe a medieval mercenary. The modern meaning of a self-employed individual offering services on a project basis emerged in the 20th century with the rise of the gig economy. Freelancing has become increasingly popular in recent years due to the flexibility and independence it offers to workers.

See also: free, freebie, freed, freedom, freefall, freefaller, freefalling, freeing, freely, freeway.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,290, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.