Langimage
English

working

|work/ing|

B1

🇺🇸

/ˈwɜrkɪŋ/

🇬🇧

/ˈwɜːkɪŋ/

(work)

effortful activity

Base FormPlural3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleAdjective
workworksworksworkedworkedworkingworkable
Etymology
Etymology Information

'working' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'weorcian,' where 'weorc' meant 'work.'

Historical Evolution

'weorcian' transformed into the Middle English word 'werken,' and eventually became the modern English word 'work.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to perform a task or duty,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the action of doing work or being employed.

The working of the machine is efficient.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

present participle of 'work'.

He is working on a new project.

Adjective 1

engaged in a job or activity for earning a living.

She is a working mother.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35