guesswork

noun

guess·​work ˈges-ˌwərk How to pronounce guesswork (audio)
: 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
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.
But that’s guesswork at best, at this moment. New Atlas, 2 Oct. 2025 But Ursa Major’s Golden Hour Body Serum takes the guesswork out of the equation. Essence, 30 Sep. 2025 To take out the guesswork, Glamour editors and contributors tested a range of popular hair gels on different curl types to find the ones that truly deliver. Malia Griggs, Glamour, 30 Sep. 2025 Lepunuo 2-Piece Lounge Set Matching sets take the guesswork out of putting together an outfit, and this shirt and wide-leg pant combo from Lepunuo is ideal for fall layering. Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for guesswork

Word History

First Known Use

1725, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of guesswork was in 1725

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Cite this Entry

“Guesswork.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/guesswork. Accessed 9 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

guesswork

noun
guess·​work -ˌwərk How to pronounce guesswork (audio)
: work performed or results gotten by guessing

More from Merriam-Webster on guesswork

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