# works

/ˈwɝks/ (US) · /wˈɜːks/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. plural of work

noun · CEFR B1

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

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

- The museum has many famous works by Picasso on display.
- The collected works of the 19th-century poet were finally published in a single, comprehensive volume last year.

### 2. a factory

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

- My grandfather spent forty years working at the local iron works.
- The city council approved the expansion of the water treatment works to accommodate the growing population in the northern suburbs.

### 3. moving parts

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

- He opened the back of the old watch to see the works inside.
- Dust had managed to get into the works of the printer, causing the gears to jam during the high-volume job.

### 4. everything

noun · CEFR B2 · Informal

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

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

- I'd like a large pizza with extra cheese, pepperoni, and the works.
- For their anniversary, they booked a luxury suite with champagne, a private chef, and the works.

## Examples

- I ordered a pizza with the works.
- The luxury hotel package includes a spa treatment, a five-course dinner, and a private tour—the works.
- While some travelers prefer a minimalist approach, others want the works, demanding every possible amenity and excursion the agency can provide.

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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.