work-to-rule

noun

ˈwərk-tü-ˈrül How to pronounce work-to-rule (audio)
: the practice of working to the strictest interpretation of the rules as a job action

Word History

First Known Use

1920, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of work-to-rule was in 1920

Dictionary Entries Near work-to-rule

work to

work-to-rule

work train

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Cite this Entry

“Work-to-rule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/work-to-rule. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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Legal Definition

work-to-rule

noun
: the practice of working to the strictest interpretation of the rules as a job action
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