noun / verb
gig
GIG/ɡɪɡ/
A short-term engagement to perform paid work.
The band plays a paid gig at a local restaurant.
Etymology
The job-or-show sense may have appeared in circus jargon. Its origin is uncertain, and the suggested connection to gigwauk, apparently an entertainment or performer, remains only a possibility.
In context
That's my son playing in his band with his friends for the first-ever gig, I believe you call it, where he got paid.
More examples
- She takes a weekend photography gig to earn extra money.
- We gig at local clubs throughout the summer.
- His latest freelance gig involves editing a company's newsletter.
Forms
gig · gigs · gigged · gigging
Similar words
- job
- A broader term that also includes long-term, steady employment.
- engagement
- Usually emphasizes a scheduled booking, especially for a performer.
- assignment
- Emphasizes a specific task and does not necessarily imply payment.