work ethic

noun

: 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

Examples of work ethic in a Sentence

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.
His work ethic has caught the attention of Miami’s new coaches, and his teammates, old and new. Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 10 July 2026 Bazzana’s work ethic and understanding of his toolset should help. Zack Meisel, New York Times, 9 July 2026 That wasn’t its only subject; comedy and power and misogyny and creativity and intergenerational conflict and work ethic and, especially in its last few seasons, the debased state of the entertainment industry were all richly explored through lines. Judy Berman, Time, 8 July 2026 Consider whether the target audience will view it as an example of your versatility and work ethic, or a distraction and conflict of interest. Danielle Chemtob, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for work ethic

Word History

First Known Use

1945, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of work ethic was in 1945

Cite this Entry

“Work ethic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/work%20ethic. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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