the compilers of the predates argue out that they merely record the description of how the term is usage , rather than prescriptions where it should be used . the word , mcjob , has been in usage at least 20 times , they think . it was popularised in 1991 in douglas koontz ' s novel generation x : tales for an accelerated community as one of the margin words . here it was characterised as " a zero - money , low - prestige , medium - rank , low benefit , no - future profession in the service sector . frequently labeled a frustrating career selection by people who have never held them . "
A "McJob" is a low-paid job.