work ethic

noun

|Updated on: 20 Jun 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

Ford is solidly built and walks with an upright posture that hints at his disciplined work ethic and academic background.

— evan sernoffsky, SFChronicle.com, "In Bayview, a police effort to build trust as captain reaches out to black community," 15 June 2018
Riverview Diner owner Eleno Silva has a remarkable work ethic that’s tough to crack.

— shonda talerico dudlicek, Aurora Beacon-News, "Take in your surroundings at Riverview Diner," 13 June 2018
A month ago, former Dolphins receiver Chris Chambers questioned Parker’s work ethic and maturity.

— shandel richardson, Sun-Sentinel.com, "Dolphins receiver DeVante Parker out to silence the doubters this season," 6 June 2018
Paige Lee, the third senior, was nominated by teacher Laura Kubanski, for her intelligence and work ethic, including music and after school activities.

— steve smith, Courant Community, "Seniors, Staff Honored At Essence Awards," 6 June 2018
However, a passage in Patrimony, Roth’s 1991 nonfiction account of his dying father, reveals his extraordinary work ethic.

— jesse eisenberg, Time, "Jesse Eisenberg on the Relentless Work Ethic of Philip Roth," 31 May 2018
That’s one thing people can’t take away from you — your work ethic.

— paul johnson, Elgin Courier-News, "Better late than never: Arizona Diamondbacks plucked Cougars catcher Renae Martinez in 33rd round," 26 May 2018
He was honored for his work ethic, being selected as valedictorian for his school’s graduation.

— breanna edwards, The Root, "Philly Teen Who Used to Be Homeless Earns Full Ride to Harvard," 25 May 2018
His colleagues praised him for his work ethic, attention to detail and commitment to his community and family.

— david anderson, The Aegis, "Havre de Grace council members Glenn, Ringsaker, Tomarchio sworn in Monday; Glenn re-elected council president," 22 May 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.