The term “freelance” has an interesting history rooted in medieval times! It originates from the words “free” and “lance.”

The word first appeared in English during the early 19th century, around 1820. It referred to a **mercenary soldier** who was not committed to any lord or master and could be hired out to anyone willing to pay for their services. “Lance” was a reference to the weapon commonly used by knights and soldiers, while “free” indicated the individual’s independence from feudal ties or long-term service obligations.

The term “freelance” then evolved to describe **any self-employed professional** who works on various assignments or contracts without being tied to a single employer. This shift reflects the transition from literal combat to a broader range of work and skill sets, maintaining the idea of independence at its core. Today, freelancers are often associated with creative, technical, and consulting fields, applying their skills across multiple projects and clients.