Added 9 October 2026
gig
/ɡɪɡ/ symbol
In Latin: cisium Wiktionary
symbol Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about gig at Wordnik → Where our words come from →
noun
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Originally , a performing engagement by a musician or musical group; a job or role for a performer.
I caught one of the Rolling Stones’ first gigs in Richmond.
-
Any job, especially one that is freelance or temporary, or done on an on-demand basis.
I had this gig as a file clerk but it wasn’t my style so I left.
-
A demerit received for some infraction of a military deportment or dress code.
I received gigs for having buttons of my uniform undone.
verb
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To play (a musical instrument) at a gig. To impose a demerit (on someone) for an infraction of a military deportment or dress code.
His sergeant gigged him for an unmade bunk.
- To play (a musical instrument) at a gig.
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To impose a demerit (on someone) for an infraction of a military deportment or dress code.
His sergeant gigged him for an unmade bunk.
noun
Origin
The etymology of the noun is unknown, but compare Old French gigue (“a fiddle”). The verb is derived from the noun.
From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)