Laborer: meaning, definitions and examples

Used for someone doing physical work, often in construction or manual labor fields. This term can sometimes imply lower skill levels or formal education.

• The construction site was filled with laborers working tirelessly from dawn to dusk.
• The company hired additional laborers to complete the project on time.

A general term that can be used to describe anyone who works, especially those engaged in physical or manual jobs. It is a neutral term but more commonly used in general discussions about labor and employment.

• The workers' union demanded better wages and working conditions.
• Construction workers often face hazardous conditions on site.

Refers to anyone who works for a company or organization, regardless of the type of work. It is a neutral and formal term suitable for any professional environment.

• All employees are expected to follow the company's code of conduct.
• She has been a dedicated employee for over five years.

An informal term that typically refers to a manual laborer or worker, often used in specific industries like agriculture or maritime. This term is less common in formal writing.

• The farm needed extra hands for the harvest season.
• He worked as a deck hand on the fishing boat.

Usually refers to someone involved in a specific technical or operational job, often in manufacturing, maintenance, or similar industries. It suggests a certain level of expertise and technical competence.

• The factory is hiring skilled operatives to operate the new machinery.
• She worked as an assembly line operative for several years.

Used to refer to someone who does physical work, especially outside or in construction. It is a neutral term.

• The laborer spent the whole day carrying bricks for the new building
• The company hired several laborers to work on the highway project

A more general term that can be used for someone who is employed, especially in industrial or manual jobs. It does not necessarily imply physical labor.

• The factory workers went on strike for better wages
• As an office worker, Jack spends most of his day in front of a computer

Typically used in a historical or traditional context to describe a poor farmer of low social status. It can have a negative connotation when used in modern contexts.

• In medieval times, peasants worked the land and paid taxes to the lords
• The derogatory term 'peasant' should be avoided when talking about modern farmers