ENGLISH
REFERENCE

workhorse

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈwɝkˌhɔɹs// UK //wˈɜːkhɔːs// work·horse

n. a person or machine that is very reliable and does a lot of hard work. You use this to describe someone who is not flashy but gets the job done.

n. a person or machine that is exceptionally reliable and capable of performing a large amount of work. Often used metaphorically to describe a dependable employee or a robust piece of equipment.


SIMPLE

He is a real workhorse who never complains about long hours.

CONTEXTUAL

The company relies on her as a workhorse, knowing she can handle the most difficult tasks with ease.

COMPLEX

While the newer models are more stylish, the older truck remains a workhorse, enduring the harsh conditions of the construction site without any mechanical failures.

Origin

From Middle English werkehorse, equivalent to work + horse.

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