yeoman's service

idiom

Meaning

Arduous work, performed in a vigorous, committed manner.

Origin

disputed origin

An allusion to stouthearted, dutiful labor performed by a yeoman.

Examples

SIMPLE

The volunteers did yeoman's service cleaning up the park today.

CONTEXTUAL

Our assistant did yeoman's service during the busy season, working late every night to ensure we finished the project on time.

COMPLEX

Throughout the long and difficult campaign, the dedicated staff performed yeoman's service, tirelessly managing every detail to secure the final victory.

Anchors to

Service

Related idioms2entries

01
lip service
Promising but empty talk; words without action or intention.
02
press into service
To make someone perform a task or duty, especially one they are not prepared or willing to do; to make something serve a function, especially one it was not designed or intended for.