Toilsome - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

difficult work

Toilsome refers to tasks or activities that require great effort and labor. It often implies a sense of exhaustion resulting from strenuous work. This word is commonly used to describe arduous processes that demand significant physical or mental exertion.

Synonyms

arduous, demanding, strenuous.

Examples of usage

The toilsome journey through the mountains left us exhausted.
She completed the toilsome project on time despite the challenges.
They engaged in toilsome farming practices to yield a good harvest.

Interesting Facts

Literature

The term is often used in poetry and classic literature to evoke the struggle of characters facing challenges, reflecting their perseverance.
In John Milton’s 'Paradise Lost', toil represents the hardships faced by man in a fallen world, emphasizing the importance of effort and struggle.
Charles Dickens frequently depicted toilsome lives of the poor in the Victorian era, illustrating the grind of daily hardships faced by his characters.

Psychology

Research shows that engaging in toilsome tasks can lead to satisfaction, as overcoming challenges contributes to a sense of achievement.
The concept of 'grit' in psychology emphasizes the importance of perseverance in hard work; toilsome tasks build resilience.
Experiencing toil has been linked to increased motivation in individuals, as the effort invested often creates a deeper appreciation for the outcome.

Film & Media

In many films, characters often undergo toilsome journeys that test their limits, a common trope in adventure and quest narratives.
Documentaries about nature often highlight toilsome aspects of animal life, emphasizing the survival struggles in harsh environments.
'Reality competition shows' frequently showcase the toilsome efforts of contestants, highlighting their hard work for rewards.

Cultural Views

Different cultures have unique views on toil, with some celebrating hard work as a virtue while others critique its draining effects on personal life.
In some traditions, the idea of toilsome labor is linked to the concept of destiny, where hardship is seen as a path toward success.
Work songs and folklore often celebrate toilsome labor, highlighting the value of hard work in building community bonds.

Origin of 'toilsome'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from Middle English 'toilsome', which blends 'toil' (meaning hard work) and the suffix '-some' (indicating something that causes a condition).
Its roots can be traced back to the Old French 'toile', meaning 'a form of labor' or 'work'.
The original Latin word 'tollere' means 'to lift', suggesting that toil involves lifting heavy burdens, both physically and metaphorically.

The word 'toilsome' originates from the Middle English term 'toilsom', which itself is derived from the Old French word 'teuil', meaning 'labor' or 'effort'. The root 'toil' comes from the Latin 'tōlāre', which means 'to lift' or 'to carry', symbolizing the heavy burdens often associated with hard work. Over time, 'toilsome' has evolved to encompass not just physical labor but also mental struggle, highlighting the challenges involved in completing difficult tasks. While its usage has persisted, it remains less common in everyday language, often replaced by synonyms that capture the essence of labor-intensive activities.

Toilsome Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations