workword

W4O1R1K5W4O1R1D2

noun

The operative word, especially in a thought, phrase, or idea; keyword.

Similar
catchwordkeynotewatchword
OriginDutch werkwoord →
Scrabble 19
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Meanings

nounworkword (plural workwords)

plural workwords

  1. rareThe operative word, especially in a thought, phrase, or idea; keyword.

    In peace, as in war, speed will be the workword. The less time required to rig and properly operate heavy-duty cranes and cargo lifts, the more tonnage you can handle.

    1945, The Log, volume 40, page 35

    Synonyms: catchword, keynote, watchword

Synonyms & antonyms

nounThe operative word, especially in a thought, phrase, or idea; keyword.

Similar
catchwordkeynotewatchword
Also see
keyword

Origin

  1. Dutchwerkwoord“verb”
  2. Englishworkword

From work + word, perhaps as a calque of Dutch werkwoord (“verb”). Compare also West Frisian wurkwurd (“verb”).

More words from Dutch

Full word history & related roots →
Cite this entry
APA

workword. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 2, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/workword

MLA

“workword.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/workword. Accessed November 2, 2026.

Chicago

WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “workword,” accessed November 2, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/workword.

Source: workword on Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.