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.

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work ethic British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of work ethic

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

The winger's energy and pace gave England a threat and his relentless work ethic won them a vital penalty.

From BBC • Jul. 6, 2026

“We have the best culture, the best men, the best women, the best work ethic, the best team — you name it, we have.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 6, 2026

He says that the “sorting mechanisms” of dating apps undervalue what matters in a potential partner: work ethic, the ability to weather hard times and the character of one’s family.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 1, 2026

Chicago gave credit to Parazaider for conceiving of the band’s distinct instrumentation, and the work ethic that made them stars.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 17, 2026

Charles’s motto was “It’s dogged as does it,” and while it may not have been a reflection of his love of dogs, it was a reflection of his work ethic.

From "Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith" by Deborah Heiligman