Help us get
into the Dictionary
We’re campaigning to officially recognize the word “seasonaire” in the Oxford English Dictionary. If you’ve ever traveled for work, lived the seasonal lifestyle, or know someone who has, this is your chance to help us celebrate and legitimize the unique experience of being a seasonaire.
What is a Seasonaire?
Seasonaire (n.) A person who engages in seasonal work, particularly in the tourism, agriculture, or hospitality sectors, often traveling between locations based on the seasonality of the work available.
Etymology
Coined in the early 21st century from the combination of “season,” referring to a period of the year characterized by particular conditions or activities, and the Italian suffix “-aire,” which is often used in nouns to indicate a person involved in a particular activity. The term likely arose to describe individuals who work in seasonal jobs, particularly in tourism and hospitality, often moving from place to place depending on the season.
Quotation
“The life of a seasonaire is one of constant change, adapting to the ebb and flow of tourism, from the snowy peaks of the Alps to the sunny beaches of the Mediterranean.” — Travel & Leisure Magazine, 2024
Sense
Transient worker—Refers to someone whose employment is dictated by seasonal demands, leading to a nomadic lifestyle between different regions or countries, often characterized by temporary residence and employment tied to specific seasons or activities.
Despite the growing number of people embracing this lifestyle, the word “seasonaire” is not yet recognized in the Oxford English Dictionary (OED). We believe it’s time to change that.
Why This Matters
The term “seasonaire” perfectly encapsulates the unique experience of those who dedicate their lives to seasonal work. These individuals are the backbone of many industries, bringing energy, expertise, and passion to the places they work.
Yet, without formal recognition in the OED, the word “seasonaire” lacks the legitimacy it deserves. By getting this word into the dictionary, we can acknowledge the contributions of these workers and give their lifestyle the recognition it deserves.
How You Can Help
We’re asking the Oxford English Dictionary to include “seasonaire” in their next edition, and we need your help to make it happen.
Every signature brings us one step closer to achieving our goal.
Use the hashtag #AddSeasonaire to share this petition on social media and encourage others to get involved.
