1
: the act of employing someone or something: such as
a
: the act of using something
We object to the company's employment [=use, utilization] of pesticides.
b
: the act of paying someone to do a job
laws that have encouraged the employment of women
2
a
: work that a person is paid to do
I've been looking for employment in the machine trade.
The new factory should provide employment for hundreds of workers.
unskilled workers trying to find paid/gainful employment
full-time/part-time employment
She hopes to find employment as a teacher.
—often used before another nounan employment contract
my employment history
b
: the state of being employed : the state of being paid to do a job
The magazine did well during the course of her employment as editor.
c
: the number of people who have jobs in a particular place or area
Employment is at an all-time high in this part of the state.
d
: jobs that are available for workers
The city is faced with inadequate housing and a lack of employment.
Cite this Entry
“Employment.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/employment. Accessed 13 Jun. 2026.
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