Language Research

labor · noun

/ˈleɪ.bər/Full view

labor (WORK)

C1 U work, especially the type of work that needs physical effort

Dictionary examples:

The car parts themselves are not expensive - it's the labor that costs so much.

manual labor

Learner example:

Several jobs did not even require the use of English, but were physical labor. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Russian)

labor (WORKERS)

C1 U workers, especially people who do practical work with their hands

Dictionary example:

skilled/unskilled labor

Learner example:

By working on both draining specific roads and replacing the worn down asphalt simu[l]taneously, the city would be saving money on the labor. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Portuguese)

the labor market

C1 the number of people in a place who are available and willing to work

Dictionary example:

The strong economy will create growth in the labor market.

Learner example:

The labor market in Russia is greatly influenced by the political situation. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Russian)

the labor force

C2 all of the people available to work or actually employed in a particular area, industry, or company

Dictionary example:

In this city, over 15 percent of the labor force are in jobs that require a bachelor's degree.

Learner example:

Young couples usually don't want to have more then one or two [children] and the labor force is declining. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Portuguese)

labor (BIRTH)

C2 C or U the last stage of pregnancy when the woman gives birth to a baby

Dictionary example:

She went into labor at twelve o’clock last night.

a labor of love

C2 an activity that is hard work but which you do because you enjoy it

Dictionary example:

He prefers to paint the house himself - it's a labor of love.