work in

verb

worked in; working in; works in

transitive verb

1

: to insert or cause to penetrate by repeated or continued effort

2

: to interpose or insinuate gradually or unobtrusively

worked in a few topical jokes

Synonyms

• insert
• introduce
• fit (in or into)

Examples of work in in a Sentence

I think that we can work in one more interview in the afternoon lineup.

managed to work in several references to baseball in his paper on the merits of teamwork

Recent Examples on the Web

Still, in previous shutdowns, these essential workers have eventually started to call out from work in increasing numbers, which has led to longer security lines and delays at some airports. —Zac Anderson, USA Today, 19 Oct. 2025

On the court, with a half-dozen new faces, the Rams’ lineup is a work in progress. —Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 19 Oct. 2025

Boersma has a degree in mechanical engineering and worked in the oil and gas industry after college. —Kendrick Calfee, Kansas City Star, 19 Oct. 2025

Deputies working in the area put it under surveillance until San Diego police arrived and made an arrest. —Paul Sisson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for work in

• jerkin
• zircon