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job description

American  

noun

  1. an abstract of a job analysis containing the classification of and requirements for a job, used in hiring and placing prospective employees.


job description British  

noun

  1. a detailed written account, agreed between management and worker, of all the duties and responsibilities which together make up a particular job

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of job description

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But for Conan O’Brien, balancing gravity and levity is part of his job description as host.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 11, 2026

That’s the job description, even if it’s not in the Senate testimony.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 30, 2026

I was told I brought “too many ideas” and seemed interested more in doing “extra things” than what was in the job description.

From Slate • Jan. 20, 2026

Maybe you asked it for an essay structure to help answer a tricky question, provide an insightful analysis of a chunky data set, or to check if your cover letter matches the job description.

From BBC • Dec. 19, 2025

And if they weren't there, the container might still hold a clue that could help us find Nergal, something the police might have overlooked because investigating ancient monsters wasn't part of their job description.

From "City of the Plague God" by Sarwat Chadda

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