Piecework

/ˈpiːsˌwɜːrk/

Meaning & Definition

noun
Work paid for according to the amount produced or completed rather than the time spent on the work.
The workers were compensated through piecework, earning a fixed rate for each product they completed.
A system of payment for labor in which a person is paid for each item produced or task completed.
In the garment industry, many employees engage in piecework to earn more by increasing their output.
A type of work that is often flexible and allows individuals to set their own pace based on productivity.
Freelancers often rely on piecework, allowing them to balance multiple projects and income sources.

Etymology

Combining 'piece,' meaning a portion or part, with 'work,' implying labor or effort.

Common Phrases and Expressions

piece rate compensation
Payment based on the number of units produced.
piecework contract
An agreement wherein the worker is paid per task or item completed.

Related Words

piece rate
A wage system where employees are paid a fixed rate for each unit produced.
output
The total amount of something produced by a person or system.

Slang Meanings

Get paid by the job.
With piecework, you can hustle and make bank if you're quick.
Work harder to earn more money.
He found that doing piecework really motivated him to put in extra hours.