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.
His father worked in the steel industry and helped instill a strong work ethic in his children, Sullivan said. — Rebecca Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 14 Aug. 2026 But there’s a clear pride in how a roll-your-sleeves-up work ethic and a successful youth system have helped pay for what is a hugely welcoming lower-division ground. — Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 13 Aug. 2026 That work ethic was essential for her Season 3 arc, which found Williams facing some of the toughest acting challenges of her career. — Maureen Lee Lenker, Los Angeles Times, 10 Aug. 2026 Their devotion revealed itself in countless ways, including Yilda’s work ethic in cleaning houses and making and selling Venezuelan pastries. — Vahe Gregorian, Kansas City Star, 4 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

Browse Nearby Words

workers' compensation
work ethic
work experience
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Work ethic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/work%20ethic. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on work ethic

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about work ethic

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