What term describes the total income earned by an employee before any deductions are applied?

The term that accurately describes the total income earned by an employee before any deductions, such as taxes, social security, or retirement contributions, is gross income. Gross income encompasses all earnings from various sources, including wages, salaries, bonuses, and any additional compensation, reflecting the full financial picture of an employee's earnings prior to any withholdings. This concept is fundamental in personal finance and payroll processes, as it serves as the basis for calculating deductions and net income, which is what the employee ultimately takes home.