workhouse Definition
- 1a public institution in which the destitute of a parish received board and lodging in return for work
- 2a place where people are sent to work as punishment
Using workhouse: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "workhouse" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
In the 19th century, workhouses were used to provide relief for the poor.
Example
The prisoners were sent to the workhouse to serve their sentence.
Example
The workhouse was a harsh and unforgiving place.
workhouse Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with workhouse
Example
After losing his job, he found himself in the workhouse.
to punish someone by sending them to a place where they are required to work
Example
The judge threatened to send the thief to the workhouse if he was caught stealing again.
a test applied to applicants for poor relief, to determine whether they were capable of work
Example
The workhouse test was designed to ensure that only those who were truly destitute received assistance.
Origins of workhouse
from 'work' + 'house', meaning a house where people work
Summary: workhouse in Brief
A 'workhouse' [wɜːkhaʊs] is a public institution where the destitute receive board and lodging in exchange for work. It can also refer to a place where people are sent to work as punishment. The term is often used in phrases like 'in the workhouse' and 'send someone to the workhouse.'
