work ethic

[wurk eth-ik]

noun

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

work ethic

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of work ethic¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

Lewis Hamilton has defended his work ethic following criticism from Ferrari chairman John Elkann, saying he wakes up thinking about driving.

Read more on BBC

“I always assumed that thieves must be shady characters, dishonest and lazy. But now that I have embarked on a life of crime myself, I see it is no mere walk in the park. It requires careful planning, nerves of steel, and a strong work ethic, too.”

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Her work ethic caught the attention of Victor Narro, one of CLEAN’s founders.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Workers and their families emphasize their contributions to society, highlighting their consistent tax payments, work ethic, and commitment to their jobs.

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These skills, moreover, and this predominance, reflected a vital feeling for raw materials, a deep aesthetic sense and a work ethic rooted in steely perseverance and in a respect for long apprenticeship and repetitive training.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal