freelance
UK: ˈfriː.lɑːns | US: ˈfriː.læns
n. a person who works independently, not committed to a long-term employer
adj. working independently for various clients
vi. to work as a freelancer
free<not bound> + lance<spear>
- free: From Old English frēo (unconstrained, exempt), related to Germanic frijaz (beloved, not enslaved).
- lance: From Old French lance (spear), derived from Latin lancea (light spear).
Etymology Origin:
The term originated in medieval Europe, where a "free lance" (freelance) referred to a mercenary knight who offered his spear (lance) services to any lord without permanent allegiance. By the 19th century, it metaphorically expanded to describe independent workers (e.g., writers, artists) "selling their skills" like mercenaries. The modern sense retains the core idea of autonomy and transactional flexibility.
She quit her office job to pursue a career as a freelance designer.
Many journalists now work on a freelance basis.
He freelances for several tech startups.
The company hired a freelance photographer for the event.
Freelance opportunities have grown with the rise of remote work.