homework

noun

home·​work ˈhōm-ˌwərk How to pronounce homework (audio)
1
: piecework done at home for pay
2
: an assignment given to a student to be completed outside the regular class period
3
: preparatory reading or research (as for a discussion or a debate)

Examples of homework in a Sentence

She started her algebra homework.
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.
Entry-level laptops often cut corners to hit a price point, so do your homework to avoid buying the wrong device. Ken Colburn, AZCentral.com, 21 July 2025 Bigger conferences without divisions made for tougher summer homework assignments. Blake Toppmeyer, The Tennessean, 17 July 2025 There are kids that their homework, their extra credit sustains their grade. Molly Morrow, Chicago Tribune, 15 July 2025 Do your homework, but postpone decisions until tomorrow. Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 15 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for homework

Word History

First Known Use

1662, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of homework was in 1662

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Cite this Entry

“Homework.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/homework. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

homework

noun
home·​work ˈhōm-ˌwərk How to pronounce homework (audio)
: work and especially school lessons to be done outside the regular class period
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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