division of labor

noun phrase

: the breakdown of labor into its components and their distribution among different persons, groups, or machines to increase productive efficiency

Examples of division of labor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The division of labor will see Hon Hai providing the hardware that will form the basis of the EV, while Sharp will be responsible for the design and development of the interior space and functions. Daisuke Takimoto, WIRED, 9 Oct. 2024 Absent this wildly sophisticated division of labor, 747s wouldn’t exist. John Tamny, Forbes, 26 Sep. 2024 There is no cook schedule and no formal division of labor. Belle Cushing, Bon Appétit, 16 Oct. 2024 Even in cases where women are now breadwinners, the division of labor at home has barely budged, according to another 2023 Pew Research Center survey. Jessica Dickler,ana Teresa Solá, CNBC, 11 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for division of labor 

Word History

First Known Use

1776, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of division of labor was in 1776

Dictionary Entries Near division of labor

Cite this Entry

“Division of labor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/division%20of%20labor. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!