work ethic

noun

|Updated on: 15 Aug 2018

Definition of work ethic

: a belief in work as a moral good : a set of values centered on the importance of doing work and reflected especially in a desire or determination to work hard

Recent Examples of work ethic from the Web

While West has managed to quash expectations with his sturdy work ethic, his eccentricity is what always allows him to stand out in a room full of vultures.

— carl lamarre, Billboard, "Kanye West Receives Autographed Dennis Rodman Jersey, Calls Him 'One of His Biggest Inspirations'," 10 July 2018
Cousins earned a reputation early on for a poor work ethic and in ability to keep his feelings to himself.

— nathaniel friedman, GQ, "Boogie Cousins Heads for the Bay," 3 July 2018
Beyond statistics, he was known for his tireless work ethic, team-first mentality and stoic nature on the court.

— shannon ryan, chicagotribune.com, "Jevon Carter, Jalen Brunson taken back to back in second round of NBA draft," 21 June 2018
The Express-News sat down with Garvin to discuss how his childhood shaped his work ethic, what his experience in finance gives him, and the challenges that face biotechnology companies.

— rye druzin, San Antonio Express-News, "Biotech CEO Garvin built his career on the lessons from humble beginnings," 14 May 2018
In the wake of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s shocking congressional primary win over a longtime incumbent in New York, people in Boston recalled her strong work ethic and dedication to helping people over the years.

— j.d. capelouto, BostonGlobe.com, "Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s friends in Boston recall her drive and dedication," 27 June 2018
Ant-Man and the Wasp director Peyton Reed noted that the actress, who steps into the role of The Wasp in the sequel, put Paul Rudd to shame with her work ethic.

— aaron couch, The Hollywood Reporter, "Evangeline Lilly Worked Harder on 'Ant-Man' Stunts Than Paul Rudd," 26 June 2018
Carlin will be remembered for his infectious smile, his evening walks through campus, his generous and caring nature and his strong work ethic.

— hartford courant, courant.com, "Carlin R. Hausmann," 12 June 2018
James Demery, left, a former Northside Christian and Saint Joseph's star, showcased his work ethic and improved shooting touch alongside Villanova's Mikal Bridges in Saturday's pre-draft workout for the Charlotte Hornets.

— chapel fowler, charlotteobserver, "Here's what this former Charlotte prep star did to get noticed at his Hornets workout," 2 June 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'work ethic.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.