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Labour Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’ช
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labour

[หˆleษชbษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

work

Labour refers to the physical or mental effort needed to do a task or achieve a goal. It can also refer to the workers collectively, especially in terms of their rights and conditions.

Examples of usage

  • The construction workers put in a lot of labour to finish the building on time.
  • She has been labouring tirelessly to complete the project.
Context #2 | Verb

work hard

To labour means to work hard or make a great effort towards a particular goal. It can also mean to move with difficulty or effort.

Examples of usage

  • He laboured for hours in the sun to repair the roof.
  • The ship laboured through the rough seas.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • Classical societies often divided labour into free men and slaves, with the latter doing most of the heavy work.
  • In the 19th century, the Labour Movement emerged, advocating for workers' rights and better conditions.
  • The industrial revolution dramatically changed labour, as people moved from farms to factories, altering work life completely.

Economics

  • Labour is considered one of the key factors of production, along with land and capital, in economics.
  • The value of labour can change based on market demand; more workers in a field can lessen individual wages.
  • Unemployment rates provide insight into the health of an economy, with high rates suggesting labour market issues.

Psychology

  • Research shows that physical labour can be beneficial for mental health, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
  • Engaging in productive tasks releases a hormone called endorphin, often referred to as the 'feel-good' hormone.
  • Understanding one's own labour satisfaction can lead to higher overall happiness and productivity at work.

Pop Culture

  • 'Labour Day' in many countries celebrates workers and their contributions, often with parades and festivities.
  • The theme of struggle and work is a common subject in music, where songs often highlight the lives of workers.
  • Popular films sometimes depict the hardships of labour through stories of factory workers, showcasing their resilience.

Origin of 'labour'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'labour' comes from the Latin 'labor', which means 'to work or toil'.
  • The term has been used since the 14th century to signify hard work or effort.
  • In Old French, 'la labour' referred to work in farming and preparing the fields.

The word 'labour' has its origins in Middle English, from the Old French word 'labourer' which means 'to work, toil'. It has been used in the English language for centuries to describe the act of work, effort, and exertion. The term has historical connections to the labor movement and the rights of workers.

See also: lab, label, labium.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,560, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.