LABOUR

Definition of LABOUR

LABOUR Noun and Verb

Labour is a multifaceted term that serves as both a noun and a verb, encompassing various meanings related to work, childbirth, and political movements. As a noun, it refers to the physical or mental effort exerted in the process of work or production. As a verb, it describes the action of engaging in such effort, as well as the process of giving birth.

LABOUR as a noun

As a noun, labour denotes the exertion of physical or mental effort in the process of work or production. It encompasses a wide range of activities, including manual tasks, intellectual pursuits, and creative endeavors. Labour can be skilled or unskilled, paid or unpaid, and may involve various forms of employment, from manual labor in factories to intellectual work in offices.

LABOUR as a verb

As a verb, to labour means to engage in physical or mental work or effort. It can refer to the act of performing tasks, completing assignments, or producing goods and services. Additionally, labour is used to describe the process of giving birth, particularly in the context of childbirth. This verb form emphasizes the exertion and effort involved in both work and childbirth.

Work and Productivity: In the context of work and productivity, labour encompasses a broad spectrum of activities essential for economic growth and social development. From agriculture and manufacturing to service industries and knowledge-based professions, labour plays a central role in generating wealth, creating value, and meeting the needs of individuals and societies.

Labour Movements: Labour also carries political and social connotations, particularly in the context of organized movements advocating for workers’ rights, fair wages, and improved working conditions. Labour unions, collective bargaining, and advocacy efforts seek to protect the interests of workers and ensure equitable treatment in the workplace.

Childbirth and Delivery: In the medical context, labour refers to the process of giving birth, during which rhythmic contractions of the uterine muscles help to push the baby through the birth canal. This physiological process typically involves stages of early, active, and transitional labour, culminating in the delivery of the baby. Obstetricians, midwives, and other healthcare professionals assist women during labour and delivery.

Labour Market and Employment: The labour market refers to the supply and demand for labor in an economy, encompassing factors such as employment rates, job opportunities, and workforce participation. Understanding trends in the labour market is essential for policymakers, businesses, and individuals navigating employment opportunities, career development, and economic stability.

Labour of Love: Beyond economic and social considerations, the concept of labour can also carry emotional or personal significance. Engaging in activities that require effort and dedication, such as caregiving, creative pursuits, or community service, may be described as a “labour of love,” emphasizing the intrinsic value and fulfillment derived from such endeavors.

In conclusion, labour encompasses a diverse array of meanings and applications, serving as both a noun and a verb to describe work, childbirth, political movements, and personal endeavors. Whether exerting effort in the workplace, advocating for workers’ rights, or experiencing the miracle of childbirth, the concept of labour reflects the fundamental role of human effort and endeavor in shaping individual lives and societal progress. Understanding the various dimensions of labour is essential for addressing economic, social, and human welfare challenges in an ever-changing world.

Examples of LABOUR in a sentence

LABOUR as a noun in a sentence

  • She endured several hours of intense labour before giving birth to her first child.
  • The construction workers put in long hours of labour to complete the project on time.
  • His dedication to his craft was evident in the meticulous labour he poured into each painting.
  • The labour of love involved in restoring the historic building was evident in every detail.
  • Despite the challenging conditions, the farmers continued their labour in the fields to harvest the crops.
  • The labour strike paralyzed the city as workers demanded better wages and working conditions.
  • The artist’s masterpiece was the result of years of labour and dedication to his craft.
  • The labour of the miners was essential in extracting the valuable resources from deep within the earth.

LABOUR as a verb in a sentence

  • They laboured all day to finish the project before the deadline.
  • The farmer laboured in the fields from dawn till dusk.
  • She laboured to breathe after running the marathon.
  • The students laboured over their homework assignments late into the night.
  • He laboured over the manuscript, carefully crafting each sentence.
  • The construction workers laboured to lay the foundation for the new building.
  • They laboured to overcome the obstacles in their path to success.
  • She laboured through the difficult childbirth with the support of her partner and medical team.

Origin of LABOUR

The term labour traces its origins back to the Latin word “labor,” which evolved from the Proto-Indo-European root “lobs-” meaning “to be weak” or “to totter.” Here’s the breakdown:

  • Labor (Latin): Derived from the Proto-Indo-European root “lobs-.”

Therefore, labour originally referred to physical or mental exertion, often associated with work or toil, reflecting the concept of exerting effort or energy in a task or activity.

Synonyms

  • Work
  • Toil
  • Effort
  • Sweat
  • Exertion
  • Task
  • Occupation
  • Employment

Antonyms

  • Leisure
  • Relaxation
  • Rest
  • Recreation
  • Ease
  • Comfort
  • Inactivity
  • Idleness

Related

  • Job
  • Task
  • Hard work
  • Manual labor
  • Industry
  • Employment
  • Trade
  • Struggle

🌐 🇬🇧 LABOUR in other languages

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