Meaning & Definition of word "Unemployed"

Unemployed

/ˌʌnɪmˈplɔɪd/

noun:

  • 1. The condition of not having a job; a state of being unemployed.
    • Example: Unemployment is a major issue in the current economy.
  • 2. A group of people who are without jobs or employment.
    • Example: The organization focuses on providing support to the unemployed.

adjective:

  • 1. Having no job or employment.
    • Example: After the factory closed down, many workers found themselves unemployed.
  • 2. Not having a job, specifically referring to an individual who is actively seeking work.
    • Example: The government is implementing programs to help the unemployed find jobs.
  • 3. Referring to a state of being without work, often used in economic discussions.
    • Example: The unemployment rate has risen, indicating more people are unemployed.

Etymology

From the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' + 'employed', which derives from Latin 'implicare' meaning 'to involve'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

unemployment rate:

The percentage of the labor force that is jobless.

long-term unemployed:

Individuals who have been without work for an extended period.

unemployment benefits:

Financial assistance provided to unemployed individuals.

Related Words

employment:

The condition of having paid work.

job seeker:

A person who is actively looking for employment.

layoff:

A discharge of a worker or workers.

Slang Meanings of unemployed

Meaning: Out of a job

Example Sentence: After the company downsized, he was out of a job.

Meaning: On the dole

Example Sentence: He was on the dole after being laid off.