legwork

noun

leg·​work ˈleg-ˌwərk 

 also  ˈlāg-

: active physical work (as in gathering information) that forms the basis of more creative or mentally exacting work (such as writing a book)

Examples of legwork in a Sentence

I wrote the article myself, but my assistant gathered the information and did most of the other legwork.

Recent Examples on the Web

Forget the hassle, and let someone else take the legwork out of keeping you stocked with high-quality socks. —Boutayna Chokrane, WIRED, 31 Jan. 2025

Utilities surged in 2024 as investors sought a way to play the burgeoning artificial intelligence trend, but attractive opportunities still exist for those willing to do the legwork, according to Morningstar energy and utilities strategist Travis Miller. —Darla Mercado, Cfp®, CNBC, 7 Jan. 2025

This kind of legwork often takes place at conferences. —Matt Von Hippel, Ars Technica, 25 Nov. 2024

Find And Engage With Legislators’ Staffers Staff members do much of the legislative legwork behind the scenes. —Expert Panel®, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for legwork

• artwork
• beadwork
• berserk
• breastwork
• brickwork
• brushwork
• casework
• classwork
• clockwork
• coursework
• ductwork
• earthwork

Kids Definition

legwork

noun

leg·​work ˈleg-ˌwərk 

: the work involved in gathering information