Gigged - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

performing job

Gigged often refers to the act of performing a temporary job or engagement, particularly in the context of freelance work or entertainment. It originated from the concept of 'gigs' in the music industry, where artists would play short, one-time engagements at various venues. Over time, the term expanded to include various types of freelance work beyond music, such as driving for rideshare services or doing odd jobs. The gig economy has become a significant part of modern work culture, highlighting the shift from traditional full-time employment to more flexible job opportunities.

Synonyms

engaged, performed, worked.

Examples of usage

She gigged as a musician at local bars.
He has gigged with various bands over the years.
Many people gig on weekends to supplement their income.

Interesting Facts

Music Industry

Many musicians depend on gigs for income, especially in genres like jazz, rock, and pop where live performances are vital.
The number of gigs a musician has can often dictate their popularity and visibility in the music scene.
Festivals and tours offer a plethora of gig opportunities for artists, helping them to reach wider audiences.

Pop Culture

The rise of social media platforms has led to new opportunities for performers to get gigs through promotion and fan engagement.
Shows like 'Glee' popularized the gig culture by portraying young performers landing various music jobs.
Many comedians and speakers also use 'gig' to describe their short-term engagements at clubs and events.

Economics

The gig economy reflects a shift from traditional full-time jobs to temporary, flexible arrangements.
This form of employment provides individuals with autonomy and can lead to diverse income streams.
It has expanded beyond creative fields, influencing industries like transportation, delivery, and freelance work.

Psychology

Getting a gig can boost a performer’s confidence and sense of accomplishment.
Regular gigs can help maintain creativity, as performers are often inspired by live audience interactions.
For many, landing a gig can reduce stress levels associated with financial insecurity in artistic professions.

Origin of 'gigged'

Main points about word origin

The term 'gig' originally referred to a public performance by musicians and dates back to the early 20th century.
It is believed to have originated from the jazz scene, specifically referring to a booking for a band.
The use of 'gig' as a verb ('to gig') emerged in the 1970s and reflects the flow of casual employment in various fields.

The word 'gig' has its roots in the late 19th century and is believed to have originated from the slang used by musicians. It originally referred to a performance by a musician or a band. The etymology can be traced to the word 'giga', which in music signifies a short, informal job. With the rise of the 20th-century music scene, particularly jazz and rock, 'gig' became widely recognized in the entertainment sector. By the early 21st century, the term started to encompass a broader range of freelance work opportunities, leading to the formal recognition of the 'gig economy'. This term signifies a labor market characterized by short-term, flexible jobs rather than permanent employment, reflecting societal shifts in work and economic practices.

Gigged Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations