The word "moonlightings" (/'muːnlaɪtɪŋz/) is a plural noun referring to the act of working a second job or engaging in an additional activity without telling one's employer. The spelling of this word follows the standard English pluralization rules, which involves adding the suffix "-s" to the end of the base word "moonlighting". Despite its common usage, however, the word "moonlightings" does not appear in most English dictionaries, and some may consider it nonstandard or informal.
Moonlighting is a term used to describe the act of pursuing additional employment or taking on a second job outside of regular working hours. It generally refers to engaging in paid work during the evenings, weekends, or holidays, often in addition to a primary job. Moonlighting commonly occurs when an individual needs to supplement their income, fulfill financial obligations, or achieve certain personal or professional goals.
Moonlighting can take various forms, including freelancing, consulting, part-time employment, or launching a small business alongside the primary job. It involves utilizing one's skills and expertise acquired from the primary occupation to perform additional work in a different or parallel field. This allows individuals to diversify their income streams, explore new professional opportunities, or develop entrepreneurial ventures.
While moonlighting can be a means to overcome financial strains or gain experience in different areas, some employers may have policies restricting or prohibiting it altogether. This is done to ensure employees' full commitment and dedication to their primary jobs, prevent conflicts of interest, or maintain work-life balance. However, if allowed and managed effectively, moonlighting can offer individuals financial stability, personal fulfillment, and even potential career advancement.
Overall, moonlighting refers to the practice of engaging in supplementary employment outside of regular working hours to augment income, broaden skills, explore new career paths, or fulfill personal aspirations.
The word "moonlightings" is formed by adding the plural suffix "-s" to the noun "moonlighting".
The noun "moonlighting" originated in the United States in the 19th century and is derived from the phrase "to work by moonlight". "Moonlighting" originally referred to the act of working at a second job, often done in secret or during nighttime hours while keeping one's primary job. The term gained popularity during the early 20th century, particularly during the Prohibition era when illegal activities like bootlegging and gambling were commonly pursued as secondary sources of income.
As for the plural form, "moonlightings", it is created according to the rules of English grammar, where the addition of "-s" is a common way to indicate more than one of something.