-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
social work
noun
: any of various professional activities or methods concretely concerned with providing social services and especially with the investigation, treatment, and material aid of the economically, physically, mentally, or socially disadvantaged
social worker
noun
Examples of social work in a Sentence
She is doing social work.
He has a job in social work.
Recent Examples on the Web
Victoria Meza, Diné/Assiniboine Sioux, is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in social work, and her education has informally shaped her understanding of the ways music transcends borders.
—Renata Yazzie, SPIN, 15 May 2024
The Juarez plant has a medical department and social work, psychology, nutrition and physical therapy services.
—Rick Barrett, Journal Sentinel, 15 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for social work
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'social work.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1847, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near social work
Cite this Entry
“Social work.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/social%20work. Accessed 29 May. 2024.
Kids Definition
social work
noun
: any of various professional activities or methods concerned especially with providing services (as counseling, job training, or financial assistance) designed to promote social well-being (as of the economically disadvantaged)
social worker
noun
Medical Definition
social work
noun
: any of various professional services, activities, or methods concretely concerned with the investigation, treatment, and material aid of the economically, physically, mentally, or socially disadvantaged
More from Merriam-Webster on social work
Nglish: Translation of social work for Spanish Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about social work
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share