laborer

noun

la·​bor·​er ˈlā-bər-ər How to pronounce laborer (audio)
Synonyms of laborernext
: one that labors
specifically : a person who does unskilled physical work for wages

Synonyms of laborer

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Examples of laborer in a Sentence

He has been working as a laborer on a construction project. they could only find work as laborers unloading cargo ships
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.
Batman’s nemesis is a billionaire with his own personal island for committing atrocities; Superman is traveling the world combating corporate abuse of laborers; this year’s new addition, Green Arrow, flat-out hunts CEOs. — Christopher Cruz, Rolling Stone, 28 Oct. 2026 The organization later became the United Farm Workers, a union that fought to improve wages, working conditions and protections for agricultural laborers. — Sacbee.com, 28 Oct. 2026 While chore coats originated in late 19th-century France as practical uniforms for farmers, factory workers and laborers, Lee helped establish the style within American workwear. — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 26 Oct. 2026 Her philanthropic activities extended far beyond her own community to include Indigenous inmates, Chinese immigrants, and white laborers, along with countless other Angelenos. — Literary Hub, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for laborer

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of laborer was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing laborer

Browse Nearby Words

labored
laborer
labor exchange
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Cite this Entry

“Laborer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/laborer. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

laborer

noun
la·​bor·​er ˈlā-bər-ər How to pronounce laborer (audio)
: one that works
especially : a person who does unskilled physical work for wages
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