day labor

noun

1
: labor performed as a daily task : labor done or paid for by the day
2
: laborers hired by the day
usually used of persons without special training

Word History

Etymology

Middle English dai labour

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of day labor was in the 15th century

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Dictionary Entries Near day labor

Cite this Entry

“Day labor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/day%20labor. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

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