Pronunciation: [nˈɪksə] (IPA) 
"Nixer" is a colloquial term used in Ireland to refer to a job that is done without paying taxes or declaring income. The spelling of the word reflects its pronunciation, with the stress on the second syllable and the "e" sound represented by the letters "ix". The IPA phonetic transcription would be /ˈnɪksər/. This word is often used in informal conversations, but it is not an accepted or recognized term in formal settings.
Nixer is a colloquial term mainly used in Ireland that refers to a temporary or occasional job taken on outside of one's regular employment. It commonly denotes part-time or casual work done mostly to earn extra income. The term is derived from the word "nix," which means nothing or zero, reflecting the informal nature of such additional jobs and the absence of a permanent commitment.
A nixer typically involves taking up work in various fields, such as construction, gardening, cleaning, or any task that an individual is proficient at or can manage with limited training. It is often synonymous with odd jobs, as these tasks are usually not part of one's primary professional skill set or long-term career. Nixers are usually taken on during weekends, evenings, or any spare time outside of regular employment hours.
The concept of nixers has become particularly prevalent in Ireland due to the country's history of economic fluctuations and periods of high unemployment. In addition to supplementing incomes, nixers may also fill gaps in temporary employment or help make ends meet during difficult economic times. The flexibility of nixers allows individuals to balance multiple jobs or commitments to maximize their income.
While the term nixer primarily originated in Ireland, it is increasingly used in other English-speaking countries as well, such as the United Kingdom. Nixers have become an integral part of the informal labor market, providing opportunities for additional income and often serving as stepping stones towards more substantial employment.
The word "nixer" is believed to have originated in Ireland. Its etymology is rooted in the Irish English slang term "níos lú ná" which means "less than" or "not as much as". Over time, this phrase was shortened to "nixer" and came to refer to a job or work done on the side, typically in addition to one's regular employment. Today, "nixer" is commonly used in Ireland to describe casual or part-time work that is often paid in cash without formal contracts or taxation.
