homework

noun

home·​work ˈhōm-ˌwərk 

1

: piecework done at home for pay

2

: an assignment given to a student to be completed outside the regular class period

3

: preparatory reading or research (as for a discussion or a debate)

Examples of homework in a Sentence

She started her algebra homework.

Recent Examples on the Web

But when the Washington Capitals’ all-time scoring defenseman was stunned by his trade to the Anaheim Ducks deep into the night before the trade deadline, Carlson immediately turned to doing his homework on the team he was set to join. —Eric Stephens, New York Times, 4 May 2026

Upstairs, a loft adds even more breathing room — ideal for a game area, homework hub or second lounge. —Miami Herald, 1 May 2026

To add order, cabinets hide toys, there’s a small desk for homework, and East London Cloth café curtains filter the light. —Katherine Burns Olson, Architectural Digest, 1 May 2026

But other studies also show minimal effects of homework on academic performance. —Brittney Melton, NPR, 30 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1662, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for homework

• bodywork
• handiwork
• ironwork
• latticework
• masterwork
• metalwork
• needlework
• openwork
• overwork
• paperwork
• subnetwork
• artwork

Kids Definition

homework

noun

home·​work ˈhōm-ˌwərk 

: work and especially school lessons to be done outside the regular class period