legwork
nounUK /ˈlɛɡˌwɜːk/ · CA, US /ˈlɛɡˌwɝk/
Etymology From leg + work.
1
Usually Work, especially research or preparation, that involves significant walking, travel, or similar effort.
- In addition to spreading more information, brokers are going to have to do some leg work to get new customers.1955 March 7, “Who'll Buy My Stocks?”, in Time:
- The worldwide effort has already revealed several valuable lessons [including] . . . the use of old-fashioned legwork in tracking down people who may unknowingly carry a virus.2003 May 1, Peter Spotts, “What the world has done right on SARS”, in Christian Science Monitor, retrieved 05 Jan 2009:
1 more example
- John did all the legwork. He had the invitations printed and mailed. He found speakers.2004, Jerry Acuff, The Relationship Edge in Business, page 62:
2
Usually Skillful or vigorous use of the legs, as in dance or sports.
- "Watriss, No. 3, is rowing well. . . . His leg work is very fair."1890 May 11, “Atalanta and Yale Race: An English expert criticizes the crews of Yale and Harvard”, in New York Times, retrieved 05 Jan 2009, page 20:
- Fancy legwork and jumping rope will get you in great shape.2005, Thomas Incledon, Matthew Hoffman, Men's Health Maximum Muscle Plan, page 353:
- Related terms
- footwork, groundwork, pound the pavement