self-employed
UK: ˌself ɪmˈplɔɪd | US: ˌself ɪmˈplɔɪd
adj. working for oneself as a freelancer or business owner rather than for an employer
adj. (of a person) not employed by a specific company but earning income through independent work
The word "self-employed" combines "self" (Old English self, meaning "oneself") and "employed" (from Latin implicare, "to engage or involve," via Old French employer). The suffix "-ed" turns the verb into an adjective. The term emerged in the early 19th century to describe individuals who work independently rather than under an employer, reflecting the rise of freelance and entrepreneurial labor during industrialization.
She chose to be self-employed to have more control over her schedule.
Many artists are self-employed and manage their own businesses.
Tax filing can be more complicated for self-employed individuals.
He transitioned from a corporate job to becoming self-employed last year.
Self-employed workers often need to secure their own health insurance.