workword
nounEtymology From work + word, perhaps as a calque of Dutch werkwoord (“verb”). Compare also West Frisian wurkwurd (“verb”).
1
Rare The operative word, especially in a thought, phrase, or idea; keyword.
- In peace, as in war, speed will be the workword. The less time required to rig and properly operate heavy-duty cranes and cargo lifts, the more tonnage you can handle.1945, The Log, volume 40, page 35: