in the works

phrase

: in process of preparation, development, or completion
The director's new movie is already in the works.
Plans are in the works for building three new schools in the area.

Examples of in the works 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 band have also confirmed that plans for their new show to come to Ireland in 2028 are in the works. — Sophie Williams, Billboard, 29 Oct. 2026 With 10 more microdramas in the works for next year, there should be plenty of secrets to go around. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 28 Oct. 2026 Gosling’s romantic partner Eva Mendes hinted Thursday that something was in the works. — Brian Niemietz, New York Daily News, 27 Oct. 2026 Chapman created Bob the Builder and, over a quarter of a century since Bob first put on his toolbelt, a new movie is in the works. — Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 26 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for in the works

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of in the works was in 1870

Rhymes for in the works

See All Rhymes for in the works

Browse Nearby Words

in the wings
in the works
in the world
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“In the works.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20the%20works. Accessed 31 Oct. 2026.

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