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

Anrabess 2-piece Linen Jumpsuit Everyone knows that a two-piece set is the truest workhorse in any travel wardrobe. — Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 25 June 2026

Shop the anti-aging workhorse on Amazon. — Erika Reals, InStyle, 25 June 2026

At this stage of his career, Bobrovsky shouldn’t be relied upon as a true workhorse starter. — Jesse Granger, New York Times, 25 June 2026

Sheet pans are the ultimate kitchen workhorse, even in the summer. — Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 25 June 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
• racehorse
• remorse
• seahorse
• workforce

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