division of labor

noun phrase

: the breakdown of labor into its components and their distribution among different persons, groups, or machines to increase productive efficiency

Examples of division of 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.
The core approach of Bask Health lies in its division of labor. — Nia Bowers, USA Today, 2 July 2026 One such shift is the distinction in that there is a different division of labor. — Jeremy Saks, Encyclopedia Britannica, 26 May 2026 This division of labor shortens the time from target detection to action across the kill chain. — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 20 May 2026 The division of labor, as Han describes it, was less about separating tasks than about bringing complementary instincts to bear on the same material. — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for division of labor

Word History

First Known Use

1776, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of division of labor was in 1776

Rhymes for division of labor

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Browse Nearby Words

divisionist
division of labor
division of powers
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Cite this Entry

“Division of labor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/division%20of%20labor. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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