What does "on the game" mean in gay culture?

What is on the game?

British term used by prostitutes to denote that they are in the sex trade industry. Also known as 'being in the game' or 'in the game'. American counterpart is 'to be in the life' or 'in the trade'.

Definition

Prostitution is the oldest profession, so many claim. The term is thought to have derived from a 19th century phrasing, of 'wench of the game' which meant prostitute.

Most of the reference to being 'on the game' is used by those actually who are prostitutes, or by law enforcement officers, in the United Kingdom.

It is used to describe their way of life.

Common phrase used in many popular detective shows from the UK, such as the Frost Series, Midsummer Murders, and the Inspector Morse Series.