: a plan or method to circumvent a problem (as in computer software) without eliminating it

Examples of work-around 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.
Just a quick bus, train or car ride away, expect fans to find a work-around — especially with a playoff series on the line. Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 4 May 2026 Rather than identify the problem, as it was supposed to, Claude used an unsanctioned work-around without telling researchers. Elias Wachtel, The Atlantic, 25 Apr. 2026 Bruce struggles with basic parrot tasks because of his missing top beak, and this has led him to develop other wily work-arounds. Elizabeth Anne Brown, Scientific American, 20 Apr. 2026 Still, there are always work-arounds. Mark Ellwood, Robb Report, 11 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for work-around

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of work-around was in 1961

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Work-around.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/work-around. Accessed 8 May. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

More from Merriam-Webster