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Toil Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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toil

[tɔɪl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

hard work

To work extremely hard or incessantly; to labor with difficulty or weariness. Toil often implies long and strenuous exertion, often manual labor.

Synonyms

drudge, grind, labor, slave, sweat.

Examples of usage

  • He toiled in the fields from dawn till dusk.
  • She toiled away at her desk, trying to finish the project on time.
Context #2 | Noun

hard work

Hard and continuous work; exhausting labor or effort. Toil can refer to both physical and mental labor that requires great effort.

Synonyms

drudgery, effort, exertion, labor, toiling.

Examples of usage

  • After years of toil, he finally achieved his goals.
  • The toil of studying for the exam paid off with a high grade.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In many classic novels, characters often undergo toil to achieve their goals, emphasizing perseverance in face of hardship.
  • The concept of toil is prevalent in works of literature like John Milton's 'Paradise Lost', where the theme of labor is deeply explored.

Psychology

  • Studies show that engaging in physical toil can lead to psychological resilience while also providing a sense of accomplishment.
  • The sense of satisfaction from hard work, or toil, is linked to increased happiness and self-esteem.

Historical Significance

  • Toil has been a critical part of human history, from the agricultural revolution where farming required intense labor, to industrial workforce struggles.
  • Different societies have depicted toil as essential for progress, often leading to social movements advocating for workers' rights.

Pop Culture

  • The concept of toil appears in popular video games where characters must toil to gather resources, highlighting its importance in survival and crafting.
  • In movies, heroes often face challenges that require great toil, demonstrating determination and growth throughout their journeys.

Origin of 'toil'

Main points about word origin

  • The word has roots in the Old French word 'toillier', which means to twist or turn, associated with hard labor.
  • In Middle English, 'toilen' referred to troublesome work, connecting it to difficulty and effort.

The word 'toil' originated from Middle English 'toilen', which came from Old French 'toillier' meaning 'to work hard'. The sense of exhausting labor or effort dates back to the late 14th century. Throughout history, 'toil' has been associated with hard work and perseverance, highlighting the dedication required to achieve one's goals through sustained effort.

See also: toilet, toiling.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,697 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.