workforce

noun

work·​force ˈwərk-ˌfȯrs 
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.
Annapurna, the indie media company founded by Megan Ellison, has enacted a significant round of layoffs representing over 15% of its workforce. — Matt Donnelly, Variety, 26 Aug. 2026 For many of the expats who make up the UAE’s workforce, the traditional financial safety nets found in parts of Europe are less extensive. — Inzamam Rashid, Fortune, 26 Aug. 2026 For young people just entering the workforce, high-unemployment coupled with the high cost of living added to their dissatisfaction. — Tania Azhang, Sacbee.com, 25 Aug. 2026 These practical reforms would strengthen — not replace — the physician-patient relationship while making better use of an existing healthcare workforce. — Joel Zive, New York Daily News, 25 Aug. 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 29 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

workforce

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