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

Clarke's shock choice says everything about the professionalism, diligence and work ethic Fletcher showed in training.

From BBC • May 31, 2026

“Talking about ambition and work ethic are great indicators,” Boneparth said.

From MarketWatch • May 18, 2026

To make it in any professional sport, a slice of luck - in addition to work ethic and natural ability - is often required.

From BBC • May 15, 2026

Singling out their work ethic, Mantello extolled the way Lane and Metcalf can be relied on to hit the ground running.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

Helm was a humble man who brought to Bush Hill three enduring qualities—an established work ethic, an endless supply of kindness, and an indomitable spiritual courage.

From "An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793" by Jim Murphy