Staffing

/ˈstæf.ɪŋ/ noun

Definition

The process of hiring, managing, and organizing employees to meet an organization's operational needs.

Etymology

From 'staff' meaning a group of employees, originally from Old English 'stæf' (stick, rod). The sense of 'group of assistants' developed from the military use of staff officers who carried staffs of office.

Kelly Says

The word 'staff' cleverly evolved from a physical object (stick) to represent people who 'support' an organization, just as a staff supports someone walking. Modern staffing agencies act as intermediaries, much like employment matchmakers.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.