outwork

American  

[out-wurk, out-wurk] / ˌaʊtˈwɜrk, ˈaʊtˌwɜrk /

verb (used with object)

outworked, outwrought, outworking

1. to work harder, better, or faster than.

2. to work out or carry on to a conclusion; finish.

   a problem to be outworked in after generations.

3. Archaic. to outdo in workmanship.

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noun

1. a minor defense built or established outside the principal fortification limits.

outwork British  

noun

1. (often plural) defences which lie outside main defensive works

2. work performed away from the factory, office, etc, by which it has been commissioned

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verb

1. to work better, harder, etc, than

2. to work out to completion

Other Word Forms

• outworker noun

Etymology

Origin of outwork

1200–50; Middle English: to complete; see out-, work

Example Sentences

“I’m trying to outwork the contract,” Snoop said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 12, 2026

I think he will outwork Eubank and might stop him, but I am edging towards a Benn victory on points in an absolute thriller.

From BBC • Nov. 12, 2025

At 64, he could outwork any reporter half his age.

From Los Angeles Times • May 11, 2024

I understood where my talents were, and I knew I was going to have to outwork people, I knew I was going to have to outsmart.

From Salon • Aug. 22, 2023

If its attorneys do not outsmart you, they will outwork you, and if they can’t outwork you, they’ll win through sheer intimidation.

From "Outliers" by Malcolm Gladwell

Related Words

• bastion
• fortress
• mainstay
• redoubt