per diem

[ per dee-uhm, dahy-uhm ]

adverb

1. by the day; for each day.

adjective

1. paid by the day.

noun

1. a daily allowance, usually for living expenses while traveling in connection with one's work or being employed at a distance from one's home:

   a per diem for lawmakers while the legislature is in session.

per diem

/ ˈdiːɛm; ˈpɜː ˈdaɪɛm /

adverb

1. every day or by the day

noun

1. 1. an allowance for daily expenses, usually those incurred while working
   2. ( as modifier )

      a per-diem allowance

per diem

1. A Latin phrase meaning “by the day.” Traveling sales reps or government workers often are paid a per diem, meaning an allowance out of which to cover daily expenses while traveling.

Word History and Origins

Origin of per diem¹

Borrowed into English from Latin around 1510–20

Word History and Origins

Origin of per diem¹

from Latin

Example Sentences

The rates shattered the standard $201 per diem for government employees and were often nearly double the room rate for other guests, the House committee says.

From Salon

To their surprise, and despite offering little more in compensation than a per diem stipend, he accepted the role.

From New York Times

A parliamentary commission which Among heads had earlier raised daily per diem rates for the speaker from $990 to $4,000.

From Seattle Times

The per diem lawmakers receive has come under scrutiny, particularly during years with drawn-out special sessions.

From Seattle Times

The prosecutor’s work would be reimbursed by the city, and the attorney general’s office would foot the bill for a per diem salary, equal to the rate of the district attorney.

From Seattle Times