legwork

noun

leg·​work ˈleg-ˌwərk 

also ˈlāg-

: active physical work (as in gathering information) that forms the basis of more creative or mentally exacting work (such as writing a book)

Examples of legwork in a Sentence

I wrote the article myself, but my assistant gathered the information and did most of the other legwork.

Recent Examples on the Web

Cristobal studies tape of every player UM signs, but Smith does a lot of the necessary legwork, because even Cristobal — with his tireless work ethic — can’t do everything. — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 3 July 2026

For the more adventurous, a coastal path recently opened that snakes around the foot of the dramatic Dois Irmãos to São Conrado and is well worth the extra legwork for the unforgettable vistas. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 May 2026

Hansae’s design office does this legwork for partners, and its team is constantly on the lookout for trends. — Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 18 May 2026

That’s because many of my favorite aurora destinations, from Greenland to Churchill, Canada, require a bit of legwork to even reach in the first place. — Stephanie Vermillion, Travel + Leisure, 7 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for legwork

• artwork
• beadwork
• berserk
• breastwork
• brickwork
• brushwork
• casework
• classwork
• clockwork
• coursework
• ductwork
• earthwork

Kids Definition

legwork

noun

leg·​work ˈleg-ˌwərk 

: the work involved in gathering information