Standard Lemma guide

nonworking

adj · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

adj

Meaning 1

That does not work (operate or function).

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: not-comparable

Examples

  • Near-synonyms: out-of-order, out-of-service

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: inoperative, nonfunctioning, nonfunctional, out-of-order, out-of-service

Antonyms: none provided

2

adj

Meaning 2

Not employed; employed in unpaid labor, such as homemaking and childcare.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: not-comparable

Examples

  • She works more than 12 hours a day at homemaking and childcare, so it is ironic that she is classified as a nonworking spouse.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

From non- + working.