social work

noun

: any of various professional activities or methods concretely concerned with providing social services and especially with the investigation, treatment, and material aid of the economically, physically, mentally, or socially disadvantaged
social worker noun

Examples of social work in a Sentence

She is doing social work. He has a job in social work.
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.
Many came from nursing or social work backgrounds, reinforcing the perception that their role was primarily supportive rather than fully police-oriented. Isadora Wandermurem, Time, 3 Oct. 2025 Graduate students who are interested in a social work career in California public schools will be able to complete the coursework and practicum hours required for the credential while at CSUF. Jenelyn Russo, Oc Register, 30 Sep. 2025 Graduating from Florida Atlantic University with a degree in social work and finding a stable job proved to be a pivotal moment in Ana’s life. Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 28 Sep. 2025 The Tullies proceeded to raise three daughters, all of whom now reside in New York City – Samantha is a stage actress, Jackie is a film editor, and Anna is studying at Columbia University to earn her masters in social work. News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for social work

Word History

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of social work was in 1847

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Social work.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/social%20work. Accessed 6 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

social work

noun
: any of various professional activities or methods concerned especially with providing services (as counseling, job training, or financial assistance) designed to promote social well-being (as of the economically disadvantaged)
social worker noun

Medical Definition

social work

noun
: any of various professional services, activities, or methods concretely concerned with the investigation, treatment, and material aid of the economically, physically, mentally, or socially disadvantaged

More from Merriam-Webster on social work

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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