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.
The side brush reaching into corners is clutch, and detergent auto-dosing saves guesswork. PC Magazine, 15 Nov. 2025 Eliminates the guesswork of warming milk. Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 12 Nov. 2025 The machine comes with four pre-programmed settings, eliminating guesswork. Jack Byram, Architectural Digest, 7 Nov. 2025 Knowing what’s working, what’s holding readers, and what’s losing them helps shape the next update without guesswork or endless tabs during tight windows. Malana Vantyler, Ascend Agency, 6 Nov. 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 17 Nov. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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