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

The cushy silhouette is one of those no-fuss numbers that takes the guesswork out of getting ready for the day. — India Roby, Glamour, 23 Sep. 2026

The gestures required to shape a stone tool were precise and difficult to learn through guesswork alone. — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 18 Sep. 2026

Take the guesswork out of decorating with these foolproof formulas. — Ella Field, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Sep. 2026

Failing could result in disconnected tactics, rising costs and growth that feels like guesswork. — Jake Lee, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 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