busywork
noun
busy·work
ˈbi-zē-ˌwərk 
: work that usually appears productive or of intrinsic value but actually only keeps one occupied
Examples of busywork in a Sentence
Students were given busywork for the last few minutes of class.
Recent Examples on the Web
Other Democratic groups have used AI tools to build campaign sites more quickly, replacing some hours of busywork.
—
David Weigel, semafor.com, 8 Apr. 2026
The tools are useful in automating busywork and drudgery.
—Charlie Warzel, The Atlantic, 3 Apr. 2026
Start by clarifying a deliverable and confirming who needs it, because clear expectations reduce busywork and help everyone focus.
—Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 23 Feb. 2026
Oftentimes, those mountains of busywork sacrifice efficiency and rarely wind up in the final product or the big screen.
—Caitlin White, Variety, 23 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for busywork
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David Weigel, semafor.com, 8 Apr. 2026
The tools are useful in automating busywork and drudgery.
—Charlie Warzel, The Atlantic, 3 Apr. 2026
Start by clarifying a deliverable and confirming who needs it, because clear expectations reduce busywork and help everyone focus.
—Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 23 Feb. 2026
Oftentimes, those mountains of busywork sacrifice efficiency and rarely wind up in the final product or the big screen.
—Caitlin White, Variety, 23 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for busywork
Cite this Entry
“Busywork.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/busywork. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
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