Working

Definition

Working refers to the act of performing tasks or duties, typically as part of one's occupation, or functioning as intended. It can also describe something related to employment or operation.

Parts of Speech

• Verb (present participle of "work")
• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwɜːrkɪŋ/
• Respelling: WUR-king

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwɜːkɪŋ/
• Respelling: WUR-king

Etymology

The word "working" originates from Old English "weorc," meaning "work," derived from Proto-Germanic "*werkan" and Proto-Indo-European "*werg-," meaning "to do" or "to make." The present participle form evolved to describe ongoing actions or operations.

Derivatives

• Worker (noun)
• Workplace (noun)
• Working-class (adjective)
• Workday (noun)
• Working-hours (noun)

Synonyms

• Operating
• Functioning
• Laboring

Antonyms

• Broken
• Idle
• Unemployed

Usage

The word "working" is often used in professional and operational contexts. For example, "She is working on her project" indicates an ongoing activity, while "The working parts of the machine" refers to functional components.

Related Terms

• Employment: The state of having paid work.
• Operation: The functioning or action of a system or process.
• Effort: Physical or mental exertion.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• Performing tasks or duties: Refers to engaging in labor or employment.
  • Example: "He is working on a new software update."

Adjective

• Functioning as intended: Refers to something operational or effective.
  • Example: "The working parts of the device are intact."
• Related to employment or labor: Describes people or conditions involving work.
  • Example: "The working hours are from 9 AM to 5 PM."

Noun

• The act of performing work: Refers to ongoing activity or operation.
  • Example: "The working of the machine needs regular maintenance."