Definition

A person who works a second job in addition to their main job, often at night or during their free time.

Example

She is a moonlighter, working as a waitress after her day job as a teacher.

Conversation

I heard you’re working late these days; are you a moonlighter now?

Yeah, I picked up a freelance job on weekends to save some extra cash.

That’s cool! How do you manage both without getting too tired?

It’s tough, but I enjoy the extra work and the flexibility.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Moonlighter → It is formed from "moon" (from Old English *mōna*, meaning the natural satellite of Earth) and "-lighter" (from the verb "light" meaning to illuminate or provide light). The term "moonlighter" refers to someone who works a second job, often at night, thus metaphorically 'illuminated' by the moon.

Memory Tip

Think of someone working at night under the 'moon' — that's why a moonlighter is someone who has a second job during the night.

Visually Confused Words