housework

UK: ˈhaʊswɜːk | US: ˈhaʊswɜːrk

Definition

  1. n. Unpaid work done in maintaining a home, such as cleaning, cooking, and laundry.

Structure
house <dwelling>work <labor>
Etymology

The word "housework" is a straightforward compound of "house" (from Old English hūs, meaning "dwelling") and "work" (from Old English weorc, meaning "labor"). It emerged in the early 19th century to describe domestic tasks performed within a household. The term reflects the societal division of labor, where such chores were historically associated with homemaking.

Examples

  1. She divides the housework equally with her roommate.

  2. Modern appliances have reduced the time spent on housework.

  3. He finds housework tedious but necessary.

  4. Balancing a career and housework can be challenging.

  5. Some couples argue over who should do more housework.