workmanlike

adjective

work·​man·​like ˈwərk-mən-ˌlīk How to pronounce workmanlike (audio)
Synonyms of workmanlikenext
: characterized by the skill and efficiency typical of a good workman
workmanlike thoroughness
also : competent and skillful but not outstanding or original
… an adequate … reporter who turned out workmanlike copy … —Tom Clancy

Synonyms of workmanlike

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Examples of workmanlike in a Sentence

He did a workmanlike job on the boat. She showed workmanlike thoroughness in everything she did.
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.
Murdock wasn’t a combine winner and his pro-day numbers were more workmanlike than anything. — Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Apr. 2026 Right-hander Michael Lorenzen delivered a workmanlike, five-inning start for the Rockies. — Patrick Saunders, Denver Post, 19 Apr. 2026 His low-key vibe may seem off-brand for a New York icon, but Brunson’s improbable journey to stardom and workmanlike approach have endeared him to the city like few others. — Tom Kludt, Vanity Fair, 17 Feb. 2026 The superstar was quiet, consistent and efficient, setting the tone for Minnesota’s third-straight workmanlike victory. — Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 7 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for workmanlike

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of workmanlike was in 1600

Rhymes for workmanlike

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Browse Nearby Words

workman
workmanlike
workmanly
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Cite this Entry

“Workmanlike.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/workmanlike. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

workmanlike

adjective
work·​man·​like ˈwərk-mən-ˌlīk How to pronounce workmanlike (audio)
: worthy of a good worker
did a workmanlike job on the boat

More from Merriam-Webster on workmanlike

Nglish: Translation of workmanlike for Spanish Speakers

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