workmanlike

adjective

work·​man·​like ˈwərk-mən-ˌlīk 

: characterized by the skill and efficiency typical of a good workman

workmanlike thoroughness

also : competent and skillful but not outstanding or original

… an adequate … reporter who turned out workmanlike copy …

—Tom Clancy

Synonyms of workmanlike

• virtuoso
• skillful
• masterful
• artistic
• smooth
• delicate
• expert

Examples of workmanlike in a Sentence

He did a workmanlike job on the boat.

She showed workmanlike thoroughness in everything she did.

Recent Examples on the Web

Present on each album since 2005’s Feels, he has often been credited with samplers and electronics and has always avoided the spotlight; his habit of wearing a headlamp during concerts perfectly epitomizes his studious, workmanlike role in the band. —Zach Schonfeld, Pitchfork, 30 Jan. 2026

The superstar was quiet, consistent and efficient, setting the tone for Minnesota’s third-straight workmanlike victory. —Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 7 Jan. 2026

Whatever that yields, Ward remains a prodigious and workmanlike subterranean rock figure. —Aaron Davis, Sacbee.com, 2 Jan. 2026

Vandegrift isn't worried about glamour Vandegrift’s offense was more workmanlike than anything. —Colby Gordon, Austin American Statesman, 29 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for workmanlike

• businesslike
• ladylike
• motorbike
• alike
• belike
• birdlike
• catlike
• childlike
• christlike
• deathlike
• dislike
• dreamlike

Kids Definition

workmanlike

adjective

work·​man·​like ˈwərk-mən-ˌlīk 

: worthy of a good worker

did a workmanlike job on the boat