work over

verb

worked over; working over; works over
Synonyms of work overnext

transitive verb

1
: to subject to thorough examination, study, or treatment
shelf stock worked over by shoppers
2
: to do over : rework
saved the play by working the first act over
3
: to beat up or manhandle with thoroughness
My boxing opponent worked me over in the ring.

Synonyms of work over

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Examples of work over in a Sentence

the mob boss's thugs really worked him over
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 financial report also offered a snapshot of the monarchy's work over the past year. — Erin Hill, PEOPLE, 25 June 2026 There have been complaints about Zayn’s different character work over the last few months. — Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2026 In fact, 59% of women report a significant increase in their care work over the last year. — Holly Corbett, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 Here’s what the experts recommend, why midday reapplication matters and the tools that actually work over a finished face. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Kansas City Star, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for work over

Word History

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of work over was in 1832

Rhymes for work over

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Browse Nearby Words

work outside the home
work over
work overtime
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Work over.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/work%20over. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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