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Definitions

self-employed

[self-em-ploid, self-] / ˈsɛlf ɛmˈplɔɪd, ˌsɛlf- /
ADJECTIVE
freelance
Synonyms


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"I know it sounds very callous, but boxers are self-employed," Smith adds.

From BBC • Mar. 25, 2026

He said he wanted to protect the eight self-employed tattoo artists that worked from his store.

From BBC • Mar. 9, 2026

A self-employed consultant, Jaundoo has taken multiple extended spells off work since 2013 to take vacations, do home repairs, visit his grandkids or simply “putter around the house” in the St. Petersburg, Fla., area.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 4, 2026

Many self-employed, private sector and informal workers are barely hanging on.

From Barron's • Feb. 24, 2026

Scaramouche, a self-employed painter, was one of the best tennis players among people of colour in Johannesburg.

From "Kaffir Boy: An Autobiography" by Mark Mathabane