Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
hirling
noun
/ˈhɪər.lɪŋ/

Definition
A hirling is a person, especially one who works for money, often without commitment to their job or employer.

Examples
- He was just a hirling, doing the bare minimum to get by.
- In the workplace, some may see hirling positions as stepping stones to better opportunities.
- Her attitude toward the job made it clear she was merely a hirling, counting the days until she could leave.

Meaning
The term denotes someone who is considered a paid worker, generally in a less prestigious or less committed role.

Synonyms
- laborer
- worker
- employee
- hired hand
- mercenary