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

Some leadership styles are quiet, with a player commanding respect solely through work ethic and on-field play. — Kansas City Star, 31 July 2026

The slate is supposedly clean, and that should create opportunity, and that opportunity should drive this team’s work ethic, according to Hafley. — Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 29 July 2026

One of Graham’s many friends in Congress, Gowdy said the senator rose to power through humor, genuine caring for all people and a relentless work ethic. — Meg Kinnard, Los Angeles Times, 29 July 2026

When employees across every generation feel pressured to look busy instead of creating value, the problem is no longer individual work ethic. — Kate Wieczorek, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1945, in the meaning defined above