homework

American  

[hohm-wurk] / ˈhoʊmˌwɜrk /

noun

1. schoolwork assigned to be done outside the classroom (distinguished from classwork ).

2. a single assignment of such schoolwork: Homeworks are due at the beginning of class.

3. paid work done at home, as piecework.

4. thorough preparatory study of a subject.

   to do one's homework for the next committee meeting.

---

homework British  

/ ˈhəʊmˌwɜːk /

noun

1. school work done out of lessons, esp at home

2. any preparatory study

3. work done at home for pay

---

homework Idioms  

1. see do one's homework.

---

Etymology

Origin of homework

First recorded in 1675–85; home + work

Example Sentences

She’s got main-character energy throughout the series, as a football thrower for Elroy, a homework helper for Judy and a dinner sous-chef for Jane.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

Now when he does his homework like he did this spring, stationing himself in front of a pitching machine, calling out balls and strikes.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 27, 2026

However, she still strongly believes "the military should never, ever mark its own homework".

From BBC • Mar. 18, 2026

Unlike adults, the younger inmates will always be accompanied by guards, whether to play football, paint or make sure they go to school and do their homework.

From Barron's • Mar. 17, 2026

We take Friday off since we have all weekend to do my homework, so Mom decides to head to the library as soon as her shift is over.

From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy

Related Words

• arrangement
• construction
• education
• establishment
• formation
• groundwork
• measure
• plan
• precaution
• preparedness
• qualification
• rehearsal
• study
• training