work ethic

noun

: a belief in work as a moral good : a set of values centered on the importance of doing work and reflected especially in a desire or determination to work hard

Examples of work ethic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Trautwein, a two-time national champion at Florida, demands relentless work ethic and attention to detail. Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 Aug. 2026 Mayor Vince Lago, Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson and Commissioner Richard Lara voted in favor of promoting Gómez, praising his work ethic and dedication to the city. Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald, 26 Aug. 2026 Darline Graham likened her work ethic to her brother's, and credited their hardworking parents who ran a bar and liquor store in central South Carolina for modeling that ethic. Kaia Hubbard, CBS News, 26 Aug. 2026 As the summer went on and the Mets’ season spiraled toward irrelevance, Bichette resolved to show the rookie outfielders what a strong work ethic looks like and what being a consistent teammate includes. Will Sammon, New York Times, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for work ethic

Word History

First Known Use

1945, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of work ethic was in 1945

Cite this Entry

“Work ethic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/work%20ethic. Accessed 30 Aug. 2026.

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