hard labor

noun

: compulsory labor of imprisoned criminals as a part of the prison discipline

Examples of hard labor in a Sentence

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.
Learn more about Marc Fogel, who was arrested in 2021 at a Moscow airport for carrying cannabis and given a 14-year sentence at a hard labor camp. Alexandra Banner, CNN, 12 Feb. 2025 Someone who appreciates hard labor and thrills to the sight of heavy machinery. Mark Z. Barabak, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2024 If discovered, Christians face being forced into a political prison camp, hard labor or execution. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 2 Mar. 2025 Ranch hands Ennis del Mar and Jack Twist share a tent and hard labor like all cowboys do, but their fellowship evolves into something deeper. Lizz Schumer, People.com, 28 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for hard labor

Word History

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hard labor was in 1651

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Cite this Entry

“Hard labor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hard%20labor. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.

Legal Definition

hard labor

noun
: compulsory labor imposed upon prisoners as part of a sentence or as prison discipline
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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