workhorse
UK: ˈwɜːkhɔːs | US: ˈwɜːrkhɔːrs
n. 1. A person or machine that performs a large amount of work reliably and tirelessly.
n. 2. An animal, especially a horse, used for heavy labor.
The term "workhorse" combines "work" (from Old English weorc, meaning "physical or mental effort") and "horse" (from Old English hors, referring to the domesticated animal). Historically, horses were essential for heavy labor, and the word metaphorically extended to humans or machines embodying similar endurance and reliability. The compound reflects a straightforward, functional analogy between the animal's role and dependable productivity.
The old truck was a true workhorse, logging thousands of miles without complaint.
She’s the workhorse of the team, handling most of the administrative tasks.
Farmers relied on workhorses to plow fields before modern machinery.
This laptop is a workhorse, perfect for demanding software.
The factory’s workhorse machine operated nonstop for decades.