workmanship

noun

work·​man·​ship ˈwərk-mən-ˌship How to pronounce workmanship (audio)
1
: something effected, made, or produced : work
2
: the art or skill of a workman
also : the quality imparted to a thing in the process of making
a vase of exquisite workmanship

Examples of workmanship in a Sentence

The problems were caused by cheap materials and poor workmanship. The excellent workmanship of the cabinets is remarkable.
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.
Across the 2026 and 2027 bridal collections, there’s been a notable emphasis on intricate savoir-faire, with designers embracing the charm of handmade workmanship, including delicate weaves, openwork textures, and crochet-effect embroideries as couture-level details. Laura Tortora, Vogue, 29 May 2026 For over 200 years, its workmanship has been carried out entirely by hand, only in Torre del Greco, which, together with the art of cameo engraving, is recognized as the world capital of this tradition. Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 27 May 2026 After interrogating luxury brands on values and principles, Gen Z is going deeper to product quality, materials and workmanship. Pamela N. Danziger, Forbes.com, 10 May 2026 Base plans run $55 to $65 per month, and the company backs its repairs with a 60-day workmanship guarantee. Sharon Wu, USA Today, 1 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for workmanship

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of workmanship was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Workmanship.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/workmanship. Accessed 3 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

workmanship

noun
work·​man·​ship ˈwərk-mən-ˌship How to pronounce workmanship (audio)
1
: the art or skill of a workman : craftsmanship
2
: the quality of a piece of work
the excellent workmanship of the desk

More from Merriam-Webster on workmanship

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