guesswork

noun

guess·​work ˈges-ˌwərk How to pronounce guesswork (audio)
: work performed or results obtained by guess : conjecture

Examples of guesswork in a Sentence

Calculating the drug's long-term effects is pure guesswork.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And best case scenario, putting stock in a brand’s skin-care system can help take the guesswork out of experimentation—no more trying to figure out if this toner will play nicely with that serum, since they’re all meant to complement one one another! Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 3 Dec. 2024 This semi-opaque set from Eagle Creek takes the guesswork out of rummaging through your bag (without exposing your dirty laundry to the world). Matthew Medendorp, Travel + Leisure, 27 Nov. 2024 This sketch opened the floodgates for online guesswork. Aja Romano, Vox, 11 Nov. 2024 Transparency from process intelligence can show customer and revenue impacts, therefore removing that guesswork. Kerry Brown, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for guesswork 

Word History

First Known Use

1725, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of guesswork was in 1725

Dictionary Entries Near guesswork

Cite this Entry

“Guesswork.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/guesswork. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

guesswork

noun
guess·​work -ˌwərk How to pronounce guesswork (audio)
: work performed or results gotten by guessing

More from Merriam-Webster on guesswork

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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