The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition. 2000.

work

PRONUNCIATION: wûrk

NOUN: 13. abbr. w Physics The transfer of energy from one physical system to another, especially the transfer of energy to a body by the application of a force that moves the body in the direction of the force. It is calculated as the product of the force and the distance through which the body moves and is expressed in joules, ergs, and foot-pounds.

INTRANSITIVE VERB: To function; operate: How does this latch work? 5. To exert an influence. Used with on or upon: worked on her to join the group.

TRANSITIVE VERB: 1. To cause or effect; bring about: working miracles. 2. To cause to operate or function; actuate, use, or manage: worked the controls; can work a lathe.

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Copyright © 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by the Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

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