Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

zero-hours contract

Noun
/ˈzɪərəʊ ˈaʊəz ˈkɒntrækt/
Definition
A zero-hours contract is an employment agreement in which an employer does not guarantee any specific number of hours of work for the employee.
Examples
  • The restaurant hired several staff on a zero-hours contract, so they could call them in as needed.
  • Many young people are working under zero-hours contracts, which can make budgeting difficult.
  • While a zero-hours contract offers flexibility, it can also lead to financial uncertainty.
Meaning
It allows employers to hire workers without providing a minimum amount of paid hours, meaning workers may not receive consistent income.
Synonyms
  • Flexible contract
  • Casual employment
  • On-call work