Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

underemployed

Adjective

/ˌʌndərɪmˈplɔɪd/

Definition

having less work than one would like, or working in a job that does not utilize one’s skills or qualifications.

Examples

Many recent graduates are underemployed, taking jobs that require less education than they have.
She felt underemployed in her part-time retail job after earning a master’s degree.
The economic downturn left thousands of skilled workers underemployed across various industries.

Meaning

The term ‘underemployed’ refers to individuals who are either working part-time when they prefer full-time work, or who are overqualified for their current job, thus not fully utilizing their capabilities and training.