workhorse

noun

work·​horse ˈwərk-ˌhȯrs How to pronounce workhorse (audio)
1
: a horse used chiefly for labor as distinguished from driving, riding, or racing
2
a(1)
: a person who performs most of the work of a group task
(2)
: a hardworking person
b
: something that is markedly useful, durable, or dependable

Examples of workhorse in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The program remains the workhorse of the U.S. immigration system. Andy J. Semotiuk, Forbes.com, 26 July 2025 An old school, tech workhorse is having a rough post-earnings session, but has still managed to trounce the S & P 500 in 2025 – and also rewards long-term investors who are seeking portfolio income. Darla Mercado, Cfp®, CNBC, 24 July 2025 But SpaceX’s workhorse rocket, the Falcon 9, is partly reusable. Selam Gebrekidan, New York Times, 24 July 2025 The reusable Falcon 9 is SpaceX’s workhorse rocket, ferrying satellites to orbit and astronauts to the International Space Station. ArsTechnica, 22 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for workhorse

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of workhorse was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Workhorse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/workhorse. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

workhorse

noun
work·​horse ˈwərk-ˌhȯ(ə)rs How to pronounce workhorse (audio)
1
: a horse used for hard work (as on a farm)
2
a
: a person who does most of the work of a group task
b
: something that is useful, durable, or dependable

More from Merriam-Webster on workhorse

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