flextime
UK[ˈfleks.taɪm]US[ˈfleks.taɪm]
n
a system of working a set number of hours with the starting and finishing times chosen within agreed limits by the employee.
Morpheme Breakdown
flex
time
flex
bend
time
time
Etymology
the word 'flextime' is a modern compound, originating in the late 20th century from the combination of the english words 'flexible' and 'time'. the first element, 'flex', is a clipping of 'flexible', which itself derives from latin flectere, meaning 'to bend'. the second element, 'time', has germanic origins, from old english tīma. the compound literally means 'bendable time', creating a metaphorical image of standard working hours being bent or adjusted to suit individual needs. this term emerged alongside changing workplace cultures that prioritized employee autonomy over rigid industrial schedules.
Analysis
Structure: flex (bend) + time (time)
- flex: from latin flectere (to bend), a verb root indicating the action of bending or turning.
- time: from old english tīma, a noun root indicating a period or duration.
Examples
many companies now offer flextime to help employees achieve a better work-life balance.
under the flextime policy, i can start my day at 7 am and leave at 3 pm.
the introduction of flextime has significantly improved staff morale and productivity.