workforce

noun

work·​force ˈwərk-ˌfȯrs How to pronounce workforce (audio)
Synonyms of workforce
1
: the workers engaged in a specific activity or enterprise
the factory's workforce
2
: the number of workers potentially assignable for any purpose
the nation's workforce

Synonyms of workforce

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Examples of workforce in a Sentence

We have a workforce of 2,400 people. the office's entire workforce is devoted to a single project right now
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.
Job center staff play a central role in the certification process, using WOTC as an employer engagement tool to connect businesses with qualified candidates, expand workforce participation and strengthen local economies. — Paul Toomey, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2026 But the nation's largest workforce − caregivers like my wife − remains invisible. — Jim King, USA Today, 2 Sep. 2026 DelRio already has the scale, workforce and industrial base to pursue these strategies. — Sj Studio, Footwear News, 2 Sep. 2026 Uber’s efforts to trim and streamline its workforce will lead to faster decision-making and clearer ownership, the company said. — Los Angeles Times, 2 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for workforce

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of workforce was in 1866

Rhymes for workforce

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Browse Nearby Words

workfolk
workforce
workful
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Cite this Entry

“Workforce.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/workforce. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

workforce

noun
work·​force ˈwərk-ˌfō(ə)rs How to pronounce workforce (audio)
-ˌfȯ(ə)rs
: the workers of a specific activity or business
the factory's workforce
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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