SPADEWORK Synonyms: 48 Similar and Opposite Words

spadework

noun

Definition of spadework

as in effort

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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.

Recent Examples of spadework These aren’t fads or fancy frameworks, but rather daily spadework that cultivates a culture of collaborative excellence. — Doug Sundheim, Forbes.com, 6 May 2025 But the loss at the Mercedes plants will almost surely slow down the union’s campaign and probably force it to do more spadework to secure the support of workers before seeking to hold elections at other auto plants. — Jack Ewing, New York Times, 17 May 2024 In this peacemaking effort, the United States would have to do almost all the spadework. — Ned Temko, The Christian Science Monitor, 14 Mar. 2024 Early spadework for the new batch of projects also dates back to the City of Cleveland’s 2004 Waterfront District Plan. — Steven Litt, cleveland, 26 Feb. 2022 See All Example Sentences for spadework

Recent Examples of Synonyms for spadework

Noun

Eco effort The property holds Green Key certification and runs initiatives such as rainwater collection for irrigation, reduction of single-use plastics, composting partnerships, and sustainable sourcing of food and beverages.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Nov. 2026
Chicago builds quantum hub The arrival of System Two is part of a broader effort to position Illinois as a center for quantum technology and microelectronics.

— Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 7 Nov. 2026

Definition of effort

Noun

The Latvian is reportedly dealing with recurring symptoms tied to Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), which can cause dizziness and fatigue.

— Ryan Morik OutKick, FOXNews.com, 6 Nov. 2026
In studies, withdrawal from kratom has appeared mild on a scale that measures clinical opioid withdrawal, with symptoms like anxiety, fatigue, gastrointestinal issues, and restlessness.

— Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 6 Nov. 2026

Definition of fatigue

Noun

In 2007, a mediator determined that despite fiscal travails, Vallejo couldn’t reduce the size of its fire department.

— Jon Regardie, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2026
The enduring travails of the Shinnecock Indian Nation, landed cousins of the Montauketts in eastern Long Island, are instructive.

— Jason Motlagh, Rolling Stone, 22 Oct. 2026

Definition of travail

Noun

This was not a surprise; Mexico’s Constitution banned slavery, and so, too, did the California state Constitution.

— Patt Morrison, Los Angeles Times, 4 Nov. 2026
America's greatness is the fight to erase the long-standing consequences of slavery and Jim Crow and segregation.

— Eric Henderson, CBS News, 4 Nov. 2026

Definition of slavery

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spades

spadework

spadeworks

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Style

“Spadework.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spadework. Accessed 7 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of spadework

noun

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