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work ethic

American  
[wurk eth-ik] / ˈwɜrk ˌɛθ ɪk /

noun

  1. a belief in the moral benefit and importance of work and its inherent ability to strengthen character.


work ethic British  

noun

  1. a belief in the moral value of work (often in the phrase Protestant work ethic )

"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 work ethic

First recorded in 1950–55

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 his supreme fitness, work ethic, athleticism and boxing brain earnt him the respect of his peers in the ring.

From Barron's

She particularly credits her parents with the work ethic they instilled in her from a young age to have respect for the craft and the job.

From Los Angeles Times

INFIELDER: Dylan Seward, Norco, Jr.; Tennessee commit can hit and field with work ethic that is off the charts.

From Los Angeles Times

"You're able to learn teamwork and communication, work ethic, and just trying different things out. I think it's such a valuable experience that students have available. We have such good faculty research labs."

From Science Daily

The director felt that she could trust Chen’s work ethic, as Horses are known for being tireless and driven.

From Los Angeles Times