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.
But for the last 20 years, Alfred Robles has applied a different level of work ethic to funny business. — Deputy Entertainment, Los Angeles Times, 22 Oct. 2026 Explore See latest videos, charts and news For Strickland, his indomitable work ethic helped propel him to becoming the first Black AEW World Champion. — Carl Lamarre, Billboard, 21 Oct. 2026 James was impressed by the rising generation of perfumers’ work ethic, remarkable ideas and ability to storytell. — Jennifer Weil, Footwear News, 20 Oct. 2026 Both his mom and high school coach attest to his work ethic, which has been on full display during his early tenure with the Hurricanes. — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 10 Oct. 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 29 Oct. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on work ethic

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster