sweat equity

noun

1. unreimbursed labor that results in the increased value of property or that is invested to establish or expand an enterprise.

Word History and Origins

Origin of sweat equity¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

My sweat equity paid off, and for a few moments I had the place to myself—pretty amazing, considering this is one of the park’s most iconic stops.

From Outside Online

“They wanted some kind of sweat equity deed or in lieu of that 27,000 ounces of pure silver,” he said.

From The Daily Beast

But even galleries with less sweat equity to pay are likely to find Miami a challenge.

From The Daily Beast