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works

n.
US //ˈwɝks// UK //wˈɜːks// works
  1. 1 plural of work (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    more than one piece of work, such as books, paintings, or tasks.

    the plural form of 'work' in its countable sense, referring to specific creative outputs or distinct tasks.

    Example

    The museum has many famous works by Picasso on display.

    Example

    The collected works of the 19th-century poet were finally published in a single, comprehensive volume last year.

  2. 2 a factory (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a place where things are made, like a steel factory or a water treatment plant.

    an industrial plant or facility where manufacturing or processing occurs; often used in compound nouns.

    Example

    My grandfather spent forty years working at the local iron works.

    Example

    The city council approved the expansion of the water treatment works to accommodate the growing population in the northern suburbs.

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  1. 3 moving parts (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the internal parts of a machine that make it move or function.

    the internal mechanism or moving parts of a device, such as a clock or engine.

    Example

    He opened the back of the old watch to see the works inside.

    Example

    Dust had managed to get into the works of the printer, causing the gears to jam during the high-volume job.

  2. 4 everything (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    everything that is possible or available, especially all the toppings on food.

    the full range of options or accompaniments; everything available in a particular context.

    Example

    I'd like a large pizza with extra cheese, pepperoni, and the works.

    Example

    For their anniversary, they booked a luxury suite with champagne, a private chef, and the works.

Word family
Idioms6 entries

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