Working hours: meaning, definitions and examples

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working hours

 

[ ˈwər-kiŋ ˈaʊərz ]

Context #1

job

The amount of time someone spends at their job during a day, week, or month.

Synonyms

business hours, office hours, work hours

Examples of usage

  • He works long hours to support his family.
  • Our working hours are from 9 am to 5 pm.
  • I need to check my working hours for this week.
  • She is on a part-time contract with flexible working hours.
  • Please fill in your working hours on the timesheet.
Context #2

legal

The specific times during the day when employees are required to be present at their workplace.

Synonyms

office hours, shift hours, work hours

Examples of usage

  • The company policy states the working hours for all employees.
  • Employees are expected to adhere to the working hours set by the company.
  • The working hours are 9 am to 6 pm with a one-hour lunch break.
  • Overtime pay is applicable for work beyond the normal working hours.
  • The working hours may vary depending on the shift schedule.

Word origin

The concept of working hours has evolved over time, influenced by industrialization, labor movements, and government regulations. In the early days of industrialization, workers often faced long and grueling hours with little to no breaks. As labor movements gained traction, there were efforts to establish standard working hours and regulations to protect workers' rights. Today, working hours are typically regulated by labor laws and company policies to ensure a balance between work and personal life.