moonlight

UK: ˈmuːnlaɪt | US: ˈmuːnlaɪt

Definition
  1. n. the light reflected from the moon

  2. vi. to work a second job, especially at night, in addition to one's regular employment

Structure
moon <celestial body>light <illumination>
Etymology

The word "moonlight" is a straightforward compound of "moon" (Old English mōna, from Proto-Germanic mēnōn) and "light" (Old English lēoht, from Proto-Germanic leuhtą). It literally means "the light of the moon." The verb sense, meaning to work a secondary job, emerged in the early 20th century, metaphorically alluding to working under the cover of night, much like the moon's subtle illumination.

Examples
  1. The lake shimmered under the soft glow of moonlight.

  2. Many nurses moonlight as private caregivers to supplement their income.

  3. The path was barely visible in the dim moonlight.

  4. He wrote poetry by moonlight, inspired by the quiet beauty of the night.

  5. Moonlighting without informing your primary employer may violate company policy.