Meaning & Definition of word "Work"

Work

/wɜːrk/

noun:

  • 1. Activity involving mental or physical effort done in order to achieve a purpose or result.
    • Example: He has to do a lot of work to finish his project on time.
  • 2. A task or set of tasks that require effort and diligence.
    • Example: Her work at the library involves organizing books and helping patrons.
  • 3. The result or outcome of an activity or effort, especially something produced.
    • Example: The artist's latest work has received critical acclaim.
  • 4. Employment or a job; the responsibilities associated with a position.
    • Example: She enjoys her work as a teacher because she loves helping students learn.

verb:

  • 1. To engage in physical or mental activity in order to achieve a result.
    • Example: I need to work on my presentation for tomorrow.
  • 2. To function or operate, as in a machine or a system.
    • Example: The car doesn't work properly when it's cold.
  • 3. To exert effort or skills in a particular task or job.
    • Example: He works very hard to meet his clients' needs.
  • 4. To have an effect; to produce a desired result.
    • Example: I hope this new strategy will work for the business.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English 'weorc', from Proto-Germanic 'werkan' (to work).

Common Phrases and Expressions

work out:

To exercise or to solve a problem.

work it out:

To discuss or negotiate a resolution to a problem.

work on:

To put effort into developing or improving something.

work for a living:

To engage in employment in order to earn an income.

Related Words

worker:

A person who does manual or non-manual work.

workplace:

The location where someone works.

workflow:

The sequence of processes through which a piece of work passes from initiation to completion.

Slang Meanings of work

Meaning: To put in a lot of effort or energy.

Example Sentence: She really worked it on stage during the performance.

Meaning: To be successful in achieving something.

Example Sentence: He's working the system to get ahead in his career.