guesswork

noun

guess·​work ˈges-ˌwərk 

: work performed or results obtained by guess : conjecture

Examples of guesswork in a Sentence

Calculating the drug's long-term effects is pure guesswork.

Recent Examples on the Web

And voila—no more guesswork and stress about when and how much to water. — Amy Brightfield, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 July 2026

Take the guesswork out of dressing this summer and fill your closet with these versatile, stylish, and comfortable matching top-and-skirt sets. — Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 5 July 2026

No second sales pitch, no quality guesswork, no aftermarket shop stealing the sale. — Sarwant Singh, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026

With home try-on programs, this approach removes much of the concern and guesswork and lets a customer find the frames that best complement their appearance without ever having to leave their sofa. — K.h. Koehler, USA Today, 2 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1725, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for guesswork

• artwork
• beadwork
• berserk
• breastwork
• brickwork
• brushwork
• casework
• classwork
• clockwork
• coursework
• ductwork
• earthwork

Kids Definition

guesswork

noun

guess·​work -ˌwərk 

: work performed or results gotten by guessing