lifework

[ lahyf-wurk ]

noun

1. the complete or principal work, labor, or task of a lifetime.

Word History and Origins

Origin of lifework¹

First recorded in 1870–75; life + work

Example Sentences

Music was the springboard for Harry Belafonte’s lifework: a career that leveraged cultural recognition toward political goals, and that recognized artistic achievements as both pleasures in themselves and symbols to wield.

From New York Times

“His unique architecture style made him world-famous,” Laschet said adding that Boehm leaves behind a “visible and impressive lifework.”

From Seattle Times

Among the warriors for civility — a.k.a. kindness — is Jamil Zaki, 39, a Stanford University psychology professor whose lifework is focused on helping us become our better selves.

From Washington Post

“My wife has presented me with eight beautiful children; is not this a better lifework than that of exercising the right of suffrage?”

From Literature

Most helpful was Art Laffer, the architect of supply-side economics, whose lifework, arguing for reducing taxes on the rich, recently earned him the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Donald Trump.

From The New Yorker