work over

verb

worked over; working over; works over

transitive verb

1

: to subject to thorough examination, study, or treatment

shelf stock worked over by shoppers

2

: to do over : rework

saved the play by working the first act over

3

: to beat up or manhandle with thoroughness

My boxing opponent worked me over in the ring.

Synonyms

• lick
• hide
• pound
• lash
• do
• hit
• punch out
• whip
• beat
• attack
• knock
• pelt
• assault
• batter
• slap
• punch
• thump
• bat
• beat up on

Examples of work over in a Sentence

the mob boss's thugs really worked him over

Recent Examples on the Web

Aerial-census work over the past 12 years showed that the state’s moose population fluctuated between 5,000 and 8,000 animals. —Jack O'Connor, Outdoor Life, 26 June 2025

Years of dedication, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of creative growth are paying off for actor Ramón Rodríguez, whose hard work over the past two decades has paved the way for a breakthrough moment in his Hollywood journey. —Veronica Villafañe, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025

The goal for the Valkyries’ coaching staff is to get both players acclimated to the team in practice and through film work over the next few days. —Nathan Canilao, Mercury News, 16 June 2025

California lawmakers will work over the next few weeks to finalize the state’s contribution to the local news fund. —Ashleigh Fields, The Hill, 22 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for work over

• carryover
• changeover
• crossover
• cutover
• flashover
• hangover
• holdover
• layover
• leftover
• makeover
• moreover
• passover