workhorse

noun

work·​horse ˈwərk-ˌhȯrs 

1

: a horse used chiefly for labor as distinguished from driving, riding, or racing

2

a(1)

: a person who performs most of the work of a group task

(2)

: a hardworking person

b

: something that is markedly useful, durable, or dependable

c

: horse sense 7

Examples of workhorse in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

With 1000 watts of power and the ability to blitz smoothies, protein shakes, baby purees, and soups, this blender is a true workhorse in the kitchen. —Michelle Rostamian, Peoplemag, 7 May 2024

The rocket is a reliable workhorse and is made by the United Launch Alliance, a joint venture of Boeing and Lockheed Martin. —Laurence Darmiento, Los Angeles Times, 7 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

workhorse

noun

work·​horse ˈwərk-ˌhȯ(ə)rs 

1

: a horse used for hard work (as on a farm)

2

a

: a person who does most of the work of a group task

b

: something that is useful, durable, or dependable