Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Jobber Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

💼
Add to dictionary

jobber

[ˈdʒɒbər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

employment context

A jobber is someone who engages in transient or irregular work, typically in a non-permanent employment capacity. Jobbers often perform tasks or assignments for a variety of employers, frequently in fields such as construction, labor, or other short-term projects. In some contexts, jobbers may act as brokers, buying and selling goods or service contracts. The term can also refer to a person who does a little bit of everything without being permanently hired by a single company.

Synonyms

broker, contractor, freelancer, gig worker, temp worker.

Examples of usage

  • He worked as a jobber in the construction industry, taking on various projects.
  • Many jobbers find their work through staffing agencies.
  • She was a jobber who assisted with events for different companies.
  • The jobber resold the materials at a higher price.
  • It's common for jobbers to juggle multiple short-term assignments.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Business

  • In retail, jobbers are wholesalers who sell goods in bulk to various clients, facilitating distribution to smaller stores.
  • The role of a jobber is often crucial in allowing smaller businesses to access products they may not be able to source directly.

Cultural References

  • The term is used in professional wrestling, where a 'jobber' is a wrestler who loses frequently to make other wrestlers look strong.
  • In literature, jobbers appear as versatile characters who take on various tasks, reflecting adaptability in challenging environments.

Psychology

  • Research indicates that individuals who take on multiple roles, like jobbers, may develop a diverse skill set and increased problem-solving abilities.
  • Jobbing can lead to greater stress due to the juggling of responsibilities but also offers variety and excitement in daily work.

Historical Usage

  • Jobbers were prevalent during the Industrial Revolution, as they helped bridge the gap between producers and consumers in rapidly growing markets.
  • In the early 20th century, jobbers became synonymous with a certain style of middleman work, often filling the gaps in supply chains.

Origin of 'jobber'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'jobber' originated in the late 19th century, derived from the word 'job', meaning a specific piece of work.
  • Originally used in the context of trading and sales, it referred to someone who would buy and sell goods quickly.

The term 'jobber' has its origins in the early 19th century and is believed to have derived from the word 'job'. The word 'job' itself comes from the Middle English 'jobbe', meaning a piece or transaction, particularly in work or trade. Jobbing was commonly associated with work that was temporary or intermittent, reflecting the labor practices of that time when many trades depended on casual laborers. In the 20th century, the term evolved, especially in business contexts, to refer to those who act as intermediaries or brokers, particularly in the wholesale or retail markets. This duality in meaning emphasizes the flexibility and varying nature of work represented by jobbers. The rise of the gig economy in the 21st century has seen jobbers become increasingly relevant, as the workforce shifts towards more transient and flexible employment arrangements.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,732, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.