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

Accessories, like hair pins, silk scarves, and, yes, the aforementioned White & Warren travel wrap (now moonlighting as a pashmina) did a lot of the legwork. —Elly Leavitt, Vogue, 27 Mar. 2026

Carolina’s brass has put in a ton of legwork throughout March, filling several holes in the depth chart with free agents. —Mike Kaye march 26, Charlotte Observer, 26 Mar. 2026

The cost and legwork required to clear figure skating music has largely suppressed the sport’s presence on streaming platforms and social media, where highlights largely disappear after 48 hours. —Sara Germano, Sportico.com, 24 Mar. 2026

That might require bringing in the producers who do a lot of the legwork. —Erik Hayden, HollywoodReporter, 23 Mar. 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