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.
Yet, the more fundamental limitation of the War on Poverty programs was the assumption that poverty could be eliminated if individuals had access to the right skills, work ethic, and opportunities. Ben Zdencanovic, TIME, 4 Nov. 2024 The company co-founders credit their work ethic and dedication to cultivating a following as key to their success. Mike Dojc, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024 The company line espoused culture, work ethic, accountability and being fits for their systems of offense and defense. Jerry McDonald, The Mercury News, 27 Oct. 2024 Both are known for their strong work ethic and excellent academics. Madison Lammert, Journal Sentinel, 25 Oct. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near work ethic

Cite this Entry

“Work ethic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/work%20ethic. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on work ethic

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!