make short/quick/light work of

phrase

1
: to make it possible for (something) to be done quickly or easily
This new snow shovel makes short work of clearing off the driveway.
2
: to finish (something) or defeat (someone) quickly and easily
She made short work of her opponents.
The kids made quick work of the french fries.

Browse Nearby Words

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Make short/quick/light work of.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/make%20short%2Fquick%2Flight%20work%20of. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster