There are several synonyms for the word "freelancing," which refer to the act of working independently as a self-employed individual. Some popular alternatives include consulting, contracting, gigging, and self-employment. Consulting typically involves providing advice or expertise to clients, while contracting refers to working on a specific project for a set period. Gigging typically involves short-term or one-time assignments, often in creative or artistic fields. Self-employment encompasses a range of independent work, from running a business to offering professional services as a sole operator. Ultimately, each of these synonyms refers to the flexibility and autonomy of working for oneself, without a traditional employer relationship.