# homework

/ˈhoʊmˌwɝk/ (US) · /hˈəʊmwɜːk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/homework
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 2. preparation or research

noun · CEFR B2 · Informal

the research or preparation you do before a meeting, interview, or big decision.

For teachers: preparatory research or background study performed before engaging in a specific activity, such as a business negotiation or a debate.

- He did his homework before the interview and knew everything about the company.
- The legal team clearly hadn't done their homework, as they were visibly surprised by the evidence presented during the opening statements.

### 3. sexual intercourse

noun · CEFR C2 · Slang · Humorous

a private, humorous way to talk about having sex.

For teachers: a euphemistic and informal reference to sexual intercourse.

- They stayed in on Friday night to do some homework together.
- The script relied on tired double entendres, frequently using 'homework' as a thin veil for the characters' romantic intentions.

Teaching tip: This is a highly informal euphemism; learners should be aware of the double meaning to avoid accidental embarrassment in professional settings.

## Examples

- I need to finish my math homework before dinner.
- The teacher reminded the students to hand in their history homework by Friday morning.
- The consultant arrived early to do her homework on the firm's recent financial performance, ensuring she could answer any technical questions from the board.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.