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labor
/ˈleɪ.bɚ/
In American English, the word is spelled "labor," while in British English, it is typically spelled "labour." When referring to childbirth, "labor" is used as an uncountable noun (e.g., "She is in labor"). When referring to work or effort, it can be either countable or uncountable depending on the context. As a verb, "labor over" something usually means spending a lot of time and effort on a specific task, often implying that the process was slow or difficult.
💬Casual Conversation
Leo, your mom's in labor. Get a move on and help her to the car.
bet. just let me finish this round first.
Meanings
Physical or mental effort used to achieve a goal; hard work.
"The construction of the pyramids required an immense amount of manual labor."
Work performed for wages; the workforce as a whole.
"The union represents the interests of skilled labor in the automotive industry."
The process of childbirth, specifically the contractions of the uterus.
"She was in labor for twelve hours before the baby was finally born."
To work hard to achieve or produce something; to exert great effort.
"He labored over the manuscript for three years before it was published."
To move with difficulty or effort; to breathe heavily.
"The injured hiker labored up the steep incline toward the summit."