How Do You Spell FLEXITIME?

Pronunciation: [flˈɛksɪtˌa͡ɪm] (IPA)

Flexitime is a popular work system allowing employees to vary their working hours within certain limits. The word is pronounced /ˈflɛksɪtaɪm/, with stress on the first syllable. The "x" represents the phoneme /ks/, which is spelled with "x" in many words. The "e" after "x" indicates the pronunciation of /ɛ/ instead of /ɪ/. The final "e" is silent, as is the norm in many English words. Flexitime offers flexibility and work-life balance, which is crucial for many modern employees.

FLEXITIME Meaning and Definition

1. Flexitime is a term used to describe a flexible work arrangement where employees have control over their work hours, allowing them to vary their start and finish times within agreed-upon limits. It is a concept that offers greater flexibility in scheduling work hours, accommodating different personal needs and preferences of individuals.

   The typical flexitime system involves the establishment of core hours during which employees must be present, while offering flexibility in determining their additional working hours. For instance, an organization may require its employees to be present between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm and allow them to choose their start and end times, so long as they meet the required total hours for the day, week, or month. This approach promotes a more relaxed work environment, allowing individuals to adapt their work hours to their personal obligations, such as family responsibilities, appointments, or personal interests.

   Flexitime is primarily regarded as a means of achieving a better work-life balance. It enables employees to have more control over their schedules, reducing potential conflicts between work and personal commitments. Moreover, it can contribute to increased employee satisfaction, motivation, and productivity, as it acknowledges the diverse needs and lifestyles of individuals. Employers may also benefit from reduced employee absenteeism, improved retention rates, and enhanced recruitment opportunities, as many job seekers prioritize organizations that offer flexible work arrangements to accommodate their personal lives.

Etymology of FLEXITIME

The word "flexitime" is a combination of two words: "flexible" and "time".

The term "flexible" originated in the mid-16th century from the Latin word "flexibilis", which means "capable of being bent". It later evolved to have a more general meaning of "able to adjust easily to different conditions or circumstances".

The word "time" comes from the Old English word "tīma", which referred to a defined period or duration. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "tīmô".

The combination of "flexible" and "time" in "flexitime" refers to a work schedule that allows employees to have a degree of flexibility in determining their working hours, as long as they fulfill a certain amount of required working time. The term was first used in the 1950s when this concept gained popularity.