workhorse

noun

work·​horse ˈwərk-ˌhȯrs 

1

: a horse used chiefly for labor as distinguished from driving, riding, or racing

2

a(1)

: a person who performs most of the work of a group task

(2)

: a hardworking person

b

: something that is markedly useful, durable, or dependable

c

: horse sense 7

Examples of workhorse in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Vejmelka has become a true workhorse starter for the Mammoth, and is currently tied with Andrei Vasilevskiy for the most wins in the NHL. —Jesse Granger, New York Times, 9 Feb. 2026

The texture-smoothing formula also includes cupuaçu butter—another moisture-locking workhorse—as well as caffeine, which helps boost collagen production, reduces puffiness, and protects skin from environmental damage. —Alyssa Morin, InStyle, 8 Feb. 2026

Caslon Cotton and Modal T-shirt A plain white tee is the quiet workhorse of any travel wardrobe, and this Caslon cotton and modal T-shirt earns its spot. —Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 6 Feb. 2026

For over 20 years, the South African artist has been one of the genre’s true workhorses, building up an intimidating discography under names like Echologist and Beat Pharmacy and applying the style’s pearlescent, pulsating aesthetic to a range of frameworks. —Andrew Ryce, Pitchfork, 6 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for workhorse

• concourse
• divorce
• endorse
• enforce
• indorse
• midcourse
• outsource
• perforce
• racecourse
• racehorse
• remorse
• seahorse

Kids Definition

workhorse

noun

work·​horse ˈwərk-ˌhȯ(ə)rs 

1

: a horse used for hard work (as on a farm)

2

a

: a person who does most of the work of a group task

b

: something that is useful, durable, or dependable